hysteroscopic procedures

Hysteroscopic procedures are minimally invasive procedures that use a thin, lighted telescope-like device, called a hysteroscope. In hysteroscopy, physicians insert the hysterscope through the patient's vagina and into her uterus; no incisions are needed. The hysteroscope transmits the image of the patient's uterus onto a screen. Hysteroscopic procedures can either be diagnostic, to determine a problem of the uterus, or operative, to treat a problem of the uterus. Small surgical instruments can be inserted through the hysteroscope to perform a procedure.

Minimally invasive surgical procedures have several advantages to the patient versus traditional "open" surgeries, where large incisions are used. Some of these advantages include: shorter recovery time, less postoperative pain, less blood loss and fewer postoperative infections. In general, patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures are able to resume their normal activities more quickly than those who have had traditional "open" surgeries. 

Hysteroscopy may be used for the following reasons:

  • Diagnose or treat uterine anomalies
  • Diagnose or treat endometrial polyps
  • Diagnose or treat abnormal bleeding
  • Diagnose the cause of repeated miscarriages
  • Perform sterilization
  • Remove adhesions
  • Locate an intrauterine device

 

If you are interested in learning more or are wondering whether you are a candidate for this type of procedures, please speak with your VWC provider. This approach is not appropriate for every patient and, just like any procedures, is associated with risks including damage to nearby organs, blood vessels, nerves, bladder, bleeding and infection. In addition, minimally invasive approaches of all kinds include the risk of conversion to an "open" procedure, or one that has to occur through a larger incision. 

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