Therapeutic (Operative) Hysteroscopy
Practical information regarding procedures under local or general anaesthetic. |
|
A therapeutic hysteroscopy with Dr Camus |
|
Hysteroscopic visualization of a septum |
|
This procedure enables a clear picture of the inside of the uterus to be visualized. It can be performed for diagnostic reasons (see investigations in women), but also in order to carry out a specific surgical intervention, such as the removal of polyps.
The biggest difference between the two variations is the form of anaesthetic (see practical information for procedures). Diagnostic procedures generally take place under local anaesthetic on an outpatients basis, whilst operative procedures require a day case admission or overnight stay and are performed under general or epidural anaesthetic.
Like the diagnostic version, a therapeutic hysteroscopy is best performed during the first half of the menstrual cycle, after menstruation and before ovulation. Under anaesthetic, an endoscope - a sort of fine telescope, is inserted through the the vagina and cervix, into the uterus. This is then dilated with a saline solution in order to obtain a good view.
The hysteroscope has a separate canal, through which the surgeon can insert surgical instruments in order to perform certain surgical interventions such as the removal of adhesions, polyps or septums. The operation itself does not generally take long, however there is a lot of preparation beforehand. Because the procedure takes place internally, through the cervix, there is no scar afterwards. However sometimes it is necessary during a hysteroscopy to visualize the outside of the uterus at the same time, in which case a laparoscopy will be performed simultaneously; which involves a series of tiny incisions on the abdomen and naval.