Fractional uterine curettage

Fractional Uterine Curettage

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Fractional uterine curettage, also known as endometrial sampling or endometrial biopsy, is a medical procedure used to obtain a sample of the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) for diagnostic purposes. This procedure is typically performed to investigate abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, or to detect endometrial cancer or other uterine abnormalities.

Purpose and Procedure

The primary purpose of fractional uterine curettage is to collect a small sample of the endometrial tissue for microscopic examination. This can help diagnose various conditions, such as endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the endometrium), polyps, or precancerous or cancerous changes in the uterine lining.

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia or light sedation. A speculum is inserted into the vagina, and a thin, flexible instrument called a curette is gently inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The curette is then used to carefully scrape and collect a small sample of the endometrial tissue.

The collected tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination by a pathologist. The procedure itself is relatively quick, typically lasting around 10-15 minutes.

The Role of Fractional Uterine Curettage

Fractional uterine curettage is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the endometrial lining (the inner layer of the uterus) for examination and treatment purposes. This procedure plays a crucial role in the evaluation and management of various gynecological conditions.

Indications for Fractional Uterine Curettage

Fractional uterine curettage may be recommended in the following situations:

• Evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding: When a woman experiences irregular or excessive bleeding, curettage can help identify the underlying cause, such as endometrial polyps, hyperplasia, or uterine cancer.
• Diagnosis of infertility: Curettage can be used to obtain endometrial tissue samples for analysis, which may help identify potential causes of infertility.
• Treatment of retained products of conception: After a miscarriage or incomplete abortion, curettage can remove any remaining placental tissue or fetal parts from the uterus.
• Evaluation of postmenopausal bleeding: Curettage can help rule out endometrial cancer or other underlying conditions in women experiencing vaginal bleeding after menopause.
• Removal of endometrial polyps or fibroids: In some cases, curettage may be used to remove benign growths, such as endometrial polyps or submucosal fibroids, from the uterine lining.

Preparation for the Fractional Uterine Curettage Procedure

Before undergoing a Fractional Uterine Curettage, certain preparations may be required. Here are some common recommendations:

• Menstrual cycle timing: The procedure is typically scheduled during the first half of the menstrual cycle or after a period to avoid the risk of unintended pregnancy.
• Medication adjustments: Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be adjusted or discontinued temporarily.
• Avoidance of sexual intercourse: Abstinence from sexual intercourse may be recommended for a certain period before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
• Pregnancy test: A pregnancy test may be performed to confirm that you are not pregnant before the procedure.
• Fasting: You may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure, depending on the anesthesia or sedation method used.

The Fractional Uterine Curettage Procedure

Fractional Uterine Curettage is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed under local or general anesthesia. During the procedure, a thin instrument called a curette is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. The curette is used to gently scrape or remove a portion of the uterine lining (endometrium) for further examination.

Sources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/dilation-and-curettage-d-and-c
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK568791/
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1848239-overview
https://www.verywellhealth.com/dilation-and-curettage-5116578

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to consult a doctor for appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use various methods and units of measurement for similar tests.