Benefits of hysteroscopy

13.02.2025

Author of the article: obstetrician-gynecologist (head) of the gynecological department No. 1 of the 1st City Clinical Hospital, Gladysheva T.N., doctor of the highest category.

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Hysteroscopy is a method of minimally invasive examination of the uterine cavity and cervical canal using an optical system (a type of endoscopic equipment), which allows for diagnostics and therapeutic manipulations (according to indications). Currently, there is no doubt that this method is the most informative instrumental method for diagnosing conditions of the endometrium and uterine cavity, and is recognized as the “gold standard” in this field.

Diagnostic and surgical hysteroscopy (hysteroresectoscopy) is performed in the gynecological departments of the clinic. More than 1000 manipulations are performed per year. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is performed to examine the uterine cavity and take tissue for biopsy (from the uterine cavity and cervical canal).

Unlike curettage of the uterine cavity, this procedure allows not only to examine the internal cavity of the uterus, but also to perform minimally invasive surgery. The doctor prescribes hysteroscopy in cases such as:

  • The presence of anomalies or malformations of the uterus (septum, fusion, etc.)
  • Suspicion of a tumor process
  • The appearance of changes in the condition or structure of the endometrium (polyps, hyperplasia, adenomyosis)
  • Myomatous submucosal nodes
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Infertility and miscarriage
  • Pathological conditions associated with pregnancy
  • Difficulties in removing the intrauterine contraceptive device

The optical system allows surgical manipulations to be performed accurately and with minimal disruption of the internal walls of the uterus, which ensures rapid healing. The hysteroscope has a loop in its design for targeted removal of pathological formations (polyps, fibroids, synechiae, etc.). When a snare is used for surgery, the device is called a hysteroresectoscope and the procedure is called hysteroresectoscopy .

Indications for hysteroresectoscopy:

  • abnormalities of the uterus
  • uterine fibroids, when the formation penetrates deeply into the uterine cavity and requires surgical intervention rather than observation;
  • synechiae of the uterine cavity (adhesions), if excision is required;
  • occlusion of the cervix (fusion of the cervical canal), which prevents entry into the uterine cavity;
  • recurrent endometrial polyps;
  • foreign body in the uterine cavity;

Thanks to hysteroresectoscopy, it became possible to perform organ-preserving operations, avoid removal of the uterus and preserve the reproductive health of women in such pathologies as fibroids of the uterine cavity, septum and synechiae of the uterine cavity, recurrent polyps; perform ablation for endometrial hyperplasia.

Equal importance should be given to preparing for the procedure. Before performing hysteroscopy, it is necessary to undergo the following examinations:

  • blood tests: general, biochemical, hemostasiogram, determination of blood group, Rh factor; tests for diseases: syphilis.
  • General urine analysis
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Smear for flora from the genital tract, oncocytology study
  • Ultrasound of the pelvic organs
  • X-ray of the lungs (not older than 6 months)
  • Consultation with a therapist; if there are concomitant diseases, consultation with specialized specialists. Compression hosiery (stockings) is recommended for all patients during manipulation.

It is necessary to warn your doctor about taking medications. Before undergoing hysteroscopy, you must stop using blood thinning medications.

Like any other surgical procedure, hysteroscopy has contraindications:

  • acute forms of infectious diseases
  • bleeding
  • presence of ectopic pregnancy
  • inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
  • verified oncological diseases

The manipulation is performed under intravenous anesthesia in the operating room, after which the patient is taken to the ward. Discharge is carried out on the same day or the next day after the procedure, taking into account her well-being.

The undoubted advantage is the short rehabilitation period; the woman can do her usual activities the very next day. However, you should adhere to certain recommendations for 4 weeks after the intervention:

  • abstain from sexual contact
  • refrain from going to the bathhouse, swimming pool or sauna
  • limit physical activity

Take care of yourself and your health!