Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy is a procedure in which the physician places a camera or Hysteroscope into your uterus and is able to visualize anatomical problems.
A hysteroscope has many uses. It can be used to diagnose and remove endometrial polyps, help unwanted heavy bleeding, resect uterine septums and get pathology specimens to rule out endometrial cancer. This is all done as an outpatient surgery in a same day surgery setting.
Recovery after a hysteroscope is usually painless. Some people have a small degree of cramping, which can be relieved with ibuprofen or pain medications. You may notice a slight vaginal discharge with tissue in it for 1-2 weeks afterward.
If you have any severe pain or fever or malodorous discharge, call immediately.
Risks
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
- Transfusion (with risk of HIV and hepatitis.)
- Uterine perforation with possibility of laparoscopy or open incision.
- Damage to bowel, bladder, ureters and major blood vessels.
- Open incision with hospital stay.
- Hysterectomy if needed to control life threatening bleeding.
- Prolonged use of foley catheter.
- Possible colostomy if bowel injury occurs.
- Wound breakdown with prolonged wound packing.
- Anesthesia risk.
- Death.