Treatment Options
Hysteroscopic Surgery
What is Hysteroscopic Surgery?
Hysteroscopic Surgery is a common gynecological procedure that is used to diagnose and treat any abnormalities within the uterine cavity. There are two types of Hysteroscopic Surgery: diagnostic and operative. Diagnostic hysteroscopy surgery is a procedure used to carefully examine the uterine cavity, seeking out any potential irregularities such as fibroids or polyps. In cases where any abnormalities are identified, operative hysteroscopy surgery is performed to remove the detected issue.
When to consider Hysteroscopic Surgery?
Diagnostic Hysteroscopy plays a crucial role in assessing and addressing the factors that may be contributing to infertility. By offering a clear and direct view of the uterine cavity, this procedure helps identify abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, or adhesions that may be preventing conception. Operative Hysteroscopy can then be utilized to remedy these issues, increasing the chances of successful pregnancy.
Hysteroscopy is a valuable procedure for investigating the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, which can consist of heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular cycles. It allows physicians to detect and treat conditions like uterine polyps or fibroids that may be responsible for the bleeding.
Women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages often undergo hysteroscopy to explore potential underlying factors. The procedure can reveal abnormalities in the uterine cavity that might contribute to pregnancy loss. By addressing these issues through surgical intervention, hysteroscopy can potentially reduce the risk of future miscarriages and support a healthy pregnancy.
Hysteroscopic Surgery is also utilized for various other gynecological concerns, such as finding out the cause of pelvic pain, removing intrauterine devices (IUDs) that have become embedded, or evaluating abnormal pap smear results.
How does Hysteroscopic Surgery work?
Diagnostic Hysteroscopy Surgery is when a hysteroscope, a thin lighted tube, is inserted through the cervix and into the uterine cavity. An attached camera allows for direct visualization of the uterine cavity and diagnoses any abnormalities that may be causing issues.
Operative Hysteroscopy Surgery is when a larger telescope with an operating channel is used to remove and treat any abnormalities found such as fibroids, polyps, uterine septum, and scar tissue. The operative portion of the procedure usually requires anesthesia and is performed as an outpatient procedure.
Does Hysteroscopic Surgery improve fertility?
Hysteroscopic Surgery can increase your chances of conception by addressing the abnormalities that block the uterine cavity. These obstructions can block sperm from reaching the uterus to fertilize eggs, and they can also prevent fertilized embryos from IVF from successfully implanting. This can lead to difficulties in getting pregnant. In some cases, if you do become pregnant, these obstructions can increase the risk of miscarriage.
During this procedure, physicians are able to get detailed visuals and imaging of the uterine cavity, allowing them to assess the possible issues that may be preventing you from conceiving effectively.
These abnormalities can include:
- Uterine fibroids
- Polyps
- Scarring
- Abnormal uterine structure
Once identified and removed, the abnormalities will no longer hinder the sperm from traveling to the uterus for egg fertilization.
Hysteroscopic Surgery also plays a pivotal role in the In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) workup and evaluation process. By removing the obstructions, the chances of successful embryo implantation can increase, bringing you one step closer to your dream of parenthood.
Hysteroscopic Surgery Recovery
Recovery from Hysteroscopic Surgery is usually quick since it is a minimally invasive surgery with no incisions. Patients may experience some cramping and light bleeding, but only for a few days.
Complications from Hysteroscopic Surgery are infrequent, but on rare occasions, a small number of individuals may encounter issues such as infections, bleeding, damage to the uterus or cervix, or reactions to anesthesia.
