Hysteroscopy

Overview

Endoscopic examination of the uterine cavity via the cervix is known as hysteroscopy. It is used to diagnose intrauterine disease and as a surgical intervention approach (operative hysteroscopy).

A hysteroscopy can be used to investigate gynaecological symptoms or problems (for example, heavy periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, pelvic pain, repeated miscarriages, or difficulty getting pregnant), diagnose conditions (for example, fibroids and polyps), and treat conditions and problems (for example, removing fibroids, polyps, displaced intrauterine devices (IUDs), and intrauterine adhesions).

Uterine perforation occurs when either the hysteroscope or one of its operating devices breaks the uterine wall. This can result in bleeding and organ damage. Peritonitis can be fatal if other organs, such as the bowel, are affected during a perforation. Cervical laceration, intrauterine infection (particularly during long procedures), electrical and laser damage, and problems induced by the distention media are also possible.