hysteroscopy
Pronunciation: his-ter-OS-kuh-pee
A minimally invasive procedure using a thin, lighted telescope to examine the inside of the uterus.
Full Definition
Hysteroscopy is a gynecologic procedure that allows direct visualization of the uterine cavity using a hysteroscope, a thin, flexible or rigid telescope with a light source. The procedure can be diagnostic (to investigate abnormal bleeding, recurrent pregnancy loss, or suspected intrauterine pathology) or operative (to remove polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or perform endometrial ablation). Hysteroscopy is typically performed in an office setting under local anesthesia for diagnostic purposes, while operative procedures may require general anesthesia. The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix, and the uterine cavity is distended with saline or other media to provide clear visualization of the endometrium and uterine architecture.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Hysteroscopy revealed multiple endometrial polyps consistent with the patient's irregular bleeding pattern." — Procedure note
- "Operative hysteroscopy was performed to resect a 2-cm intracavitary fibroid." — Surgical report