A dilatation and curettage, while able to sample uterine tissue, cannot always detect masses or growths in the cavity of the uterus, such as fibroids and polyps. The best way to know what is going on is to look inside with a hysteroscope, a slender scope with a light and a camera that is placed through the cervical opening to visualize the inside of the uterine cavity.
Usually a Diagnostic D&C with hysteroscopy is performed if ultrasound and/or endometrial biopsy is not definitive. Operative hysteroscopy, in which instruments are passed through the hysteroscope, is used to remove fibroids and polyps. On occasion, hysteroscopy is done without a D&C, particularly when it is an office procedure for the purpose of making a diagnosis.
The procedure takes place using local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on personal preference and how difficult the procedure is expected to be.
We perform this procedure either in our office surgical suite, 900 North Michigan outpatient surgical center, or Prentice Women's Hospital.
Situations in which D&C/Hysteroscopy would be appropriate include the following:
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