Endoscopic procedure for a detailed examination of the inside of the uterus
The development of technology and medicine has enabled certain diagnostic examinations to be carried out with maximum precision, minimal invasiveness and the most detailed insight into the desired area, with as few complications and adverse reactions as possible.
Some of such examinations are also used in the field of gynecology, and one of them is hysteroscopy.
This examination is based on the use of an endoscope for a closer look at the inside of the uterus, and at the gynecology department at the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic, we perform this procedure as one of the basic examinations.
Hysteroscopy is an examination that is performed with the purpose of a closer examination of the neck and uterine cavity. This procedure is performed with the assistance of an endoscope – a thin and flexible tube that has a small camera with a light source at the top.
Hysteroscopy can be used to observe the tissues of the uterus more closely, without the risk of tissue damage or causing bleeding.
Due to its minimal invasiveness, but also the technology that allows the display of high-resolution images, this procedure is becoming more and more effective for timely recognition of problems related to the functioning of the reproductive system.
In addition, this procedure serves as an assistant for surgical procedures, allowing doctors a better introduction to the area they are trying to operate.
That is why hysteroscopy as an endoscopic procedure is divided into two categories:
Diagnostic hysteroscopy is performed to find the cause of disorders such as infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or irregular and frequent bleeding that is not related to menstruation.
It is also carried out in the case of prevention, during which the uterine mucosa is examined more closely and, if necessary, a sample is taken for further analysis.
Therapeutic hysteroscopy is performed in addition to the primary surgical procedure, the aim of which is to stop bleeding, remove tissue, or some other object that represented excess in the uterine cavity.
Thus, for example, this procedure can be performed with burning of the uterine mucosa, removal of polyps, removal of a septum or adhesions in the uterus, but also removal of a spiral that cannot be removed by the standard method.
Whether it is a diagnostic or preventive hysteroscopy, this procedure provides doctors with a significantly better examination of the uterine cavity, and allows for a more accurate diagnosis, but also a better performance of surgical procedures.
Hysteroscopy is not always on the list of mandatory gynecological examinations. In other words, there are specific circumstances that would make your gynecologist recommend you to go for this procedure.
Your gynecologist may recommend a hysteroscopy of the uterus in the following circumstances:
These circumstances require a somewhat more careful and precise approach of the gynecologist, and hysteroscopy allows examinations and surgical procedures of this type to be carried out with the greatest possible precision, providing better outcomes of the procedures, with the fastest possible recovery and less chance of developing adverse reactions.
Preparations for hysteroscopy may vary depending on the purpose for which it is performed. If hysteroscopy is performed only for the purpose of diagnosis, local anesthesia will be used and no specific preparation will be required.
However, if hysteroscopy is performed as part of the surgery, then general anesthesia will be used, and it will be necessary to perform basic laboratory examinations, ECG and a detailed examination by an anesthesiologist.
Your doctor, before performing a hysteroscopy, may ask you for more recent findings of gynecological examinations, such as a Pap test, swabs and ultrasound.
Hysteroscopy will not be performed in the case of pregnancy, unless it is a very early stage when the endometrium cannot be harmed. Acute pelvic inflammation, or suspicion of endocervical and endometrial cancer are also circumstances that make hysteroscopy not recommended.
Once you are in a gynecological position, and when anesthesia is applied, the gynecologist uses a speculum to widen the vaginal canal and facilitate the passage of the hysteroscope to the uterus.
By conducting the hysteroscope to the uterine cavity, a special solution is applied through the tube that expands the walls of the uterus, and which allows a better view of the uterus.
The gynecologist will then, depending on the purpose of the procedure, continue to use the hysteroscope for a more detailed examination of the tissues inside the uterus.
The procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, after which you are allowed to go home for home care.
Recovery after hysteroscopy is quick and painless. On the day of the procedure, it is recommended to rest and be away from intensive physical work, and on the second day you can return to daily activities.
Occurrences such as bleeding and cramps are normal after hysteroscopy. However, if you notice frequent and prolonged bleeding, severe pain, fever and vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, it is necessary to contact a doctor as soon as possible.
To reduce the chances of developing complications, certain guidelines should be followed for the next two weeks after the procedure. These include avoiding sexual intercourse, swimming in swimming pools, and using tampons.
These activities could irritate the area where the examination was carried out, and cause adverse reactions.
Hysteroscopy is considered a routine procedure that rarely causes serious complications. However, in the case of poorer preparation for the procedure, negligence of the gynecologist or some other unexpected circumstance, the following complications are possible:
You will be able to notice these occurrences by typical symptoms such as fever, frequent pain and cramps, and bleeding that cannot be stopped. In the case of such occurrences, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
At the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic, we have gathered a team of experts in the field of gynecology who will make sure that your pregnancy goes without any disturbances and unnecessary complications.
We especially nurture interaction with clients and try to provide answers to all the worries and fears you have related to pregnancy.
Make an appointment today by calling +3851 2444 646 or fill out our online form.
The main goal of LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with top-notch healthcare services.
