Diagnostic and Operative Hysteroscopy – Nowa Estetyka Wrocław
Diagnostic Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure that allows for the examination of the uterine cavity, taking samples for histopathological examination (“hist-pat”), and minimally invasive removal of abnormal changes in the reproductive tract.
During diagnostic hysteroscopy, the doctor inserts a thin tube, the hysteroscope, through the vagina and cervical canal into the uterus. The hysteroscope is equipped with a camera that allows visualization of the uterine interior. During the examination, the doctor can assess the uterine lining, detect any abnormalities such as adhesions, septa, fibroids, or polyps, and take biopsies for histopathological analysis. Diagnostic hysteroscopy lasts 5-10 minutes.
Indications for Diagnostic Hysteroscopy:
- Abnormal ultrasound results
- Cancer diagnostics of the uterine lining
- Taking samples for hist-pat analysis
- Assessment of endometrial structure
- Primary and secondary infertility diagnostics
- Miscarriage diagnostics
Operative Hysteroscopy
Operative hysteroscopy (hysteroscopic resection) aims to remove pathological uterine changes, such as polyps, adhesions, or submucosal fibroids. The doctor can use the hysteroscope to remove or treat abnormalities without invasive surgery. Special micronstruments are used to remove these changes through the body’s natural openings, so the procedure doesn’t require wound care or stitches. During the procedure, the doctor can also cut and coagulate (seal) tissues to reduce bleeding.
Indications for operative hysteroscopy include the precise removal of pathological changes such as:
- Intrauterine adhesions
- Endometrial polyps
- Uterine septa
- Submucosal fibroids
If pathological changes are removed during the procedure, a histopathological examination is necessary.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually lasts 20-30 minutes. Shortly after the procedure, the patient can leave the clinic (hospitalization is not required).
Is Hysteroscopy Safe?
Hysteroscopy is a relatively safe procedure and can be performed on women of reproductive age as well as postmenopausal women. However, it carries certain risks, such as bleeding, infection, or uterine perforation. Before deciding on hysteroscopy, the doctor usually conducts a detailed interview and physical examination to assess whether the patient qualifies for the procedure.
For women of reproductive age, hysteroscopy is safer than uterine curettage. Curettage carries a risk of adhesions, which can negatively affect fertility. Hysteroscopy allows for controlled removal of pathological changes, eliminating the risk of adhesions.
Hysteroscopy – Preparation for the Procedure
The procedure is performed in the first half of the cycle after bleeding stops (before ovulation).
Immediately before the procedure, the bladder should be emptied.
The procedure is not performed on pregnant patients or during menstruation.
How Long is Recovery? What Are the Post-Procedure Recommendations?
Hysteroscopy does not require tissue disruption, so aside from maintaining personal hygiene, there are no special care recommendations.
After diagnostic or operative hysteroscopy, the patient should refrain from sexual intercourse for at least a week or until any bleeding subsides.
After operative hysteroscopy, for about 10 days, patients should avoid heavy lifting, intense physical exertion, straining the body, and activities that raise body temperature (tanning, swimming, long hot baths). There are no contraindications for light activities (e.g., walking). Bleeding after operative hysteroscopy may last longer, up to 7-10 days, and there may also be pain in the lower abdomen.
After hysteroscopy, the next menstrual period may come earlier or later than usual. Bleeding after resuming sexual activity (after waiting the recommended time, depending on the purpose of the hysteroscopy) is not a cause for concern unless the bleeding increases or other painful symptoms occur.
Post-hysteroscopy discomfort typically does not require sick leave (depending on the type of work performed).
