Hysteroscopy

A hysterscope is a thin, lighted telescope-like device that is used to diagnose or treat problems of the uterus. It is inserted through the vagina into the uterus.

With a hysterscope, the surgeon gets a clear view of the uterus displayed on a screen or monitor. Other instruments can be used along with the hysterscope for treatment.

COMMON USES

Hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, such as long and heavy periods. It can also be used to locate an intrauterine device and perform sterilization such as Essure®. The hysterscope is used to visualize the opening of the fallopian tubes and then the surgeon places implants into the tubes to occlude them. This is a permanent birth control.

THE PROCESS

Rosemark offers hysteroscopy procedures that are done in our office or at the hospital. It will be scheduled outside the menstrual period of a woman’s cycle. Before a hysteroscopy, medication may be given to help the patient relax.

Medication

Local anesthesia may be injected into the cervix to block the pain or general anesthesia may be offered. If general anesthesia is given, the patient will not be awake during the procedure. The Rosemark surgeon may also provide medication that the patient inserts into the cervix or the doctor may insert the medication using dilators to open the cervix before the hysteroscopy.

Hysterscope Insertion

A speculum is first inserted into the vagina. The hysterscope is then inserted and gently moved through the cervix into the uterus. Saline water or gas will be put through the hysterscope into the uterus to open it. The gas or fluid helps the surgeon see the lining of the uterus and fallopian tubes more clearly. The amount of fluid used is carefully checked throughout the procedure. If a biopsy or other procedure is performed, small instruments will be passed through the hysterscope to collect a tissue sample for a biopsy.

Recovery

The patient should be able to go home shortly after the procedure. If general anesthesia was administered, they may need to wait until its effects have worn off.

It is normal for patients to experience some mild cramping or a little bloody discharge for a few days after the procedure. The patient may be given medication to help ease their pain. If a fever, chills, or heavy bleeding, develops, the patient should call their Rosemark obgyn provider right away.

RISKS

Hysteroscopy is a safe procedure with minimal risk. The uterus or cervix can be punctured by the hysterscope, bleeding may occur, or excess fluid may build up in the patient’s system. In rare cases, a hysteroscopy can cause life-threatening problems.

SUMMARY

There are a variety of reasons where a hysteroscopy is a very beneficial procedure. If you are experiencing heavy bleeding or are considering a tubal occlusion, contact Rosemark for an appointment to discuss the hysteroscopy procedures.