Hysteroscopy

About Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a procedure carried out either in the outpatient clinic (no anesthesia) or in the operation theatre (under general anesthesia) which involves passing a fine telescope through the vagina and the cervix to examine the pathology of uterine cavity or for uterine therapeutic surgery.

Application

• Diagnosis – by using a hysteroscope the doctor can make diagnosis such as uterine polyp, fibroids, uterine adhesions or anomalies.

• Treatment – applicable to infertility treatment including removal of uterine polyps/fibroids, division of uterine adhesions or uterine septum.

Operation Procedure for Hysteroscopy

• Some patients may require oral/vaginal medication before the procedure for cervical dilation.

• A hysteroscope will pass through the vagina and cervix into the uterus to give a clear view of the womb. The doctor may need to inject normal saline or other distending medium to distend the uterine cavity during the procedure.

• The whole procedure takes about 10-15 minutes for diagnostic purpose and around 60 minutes if therapeutic surgery is required at the same time.

After the Procedure

• In general you can be discharged after the examination.

• You may have mild cramping and some spotting for a few days after the procedure which will subside gradually.

Risks and Complications

Generally hysteroscopy is quite a safe procedure. Complications are rare but can include bleeding, pelvic infection, perforation of uterus and trauma to nearby organs or cervical laceration. If you have persistent bleeding, smelly discharge, fever or severe pain in the tummy, you need to go to the Accident and Emergency Department for assistance immediately.