Description

Familiarity with Treatment: Diagnostic and therapeutic curettage, often referred to as dilation and curettage (D&C), is a minor surgical procedure used to remove tissue from the uterus. It can be performed for diagnostic purposes (to investigate abnormal uterine conditions) or therapeutic purposes (to treat certain uterine conditions).

Procedure:

• Dilation: The cervix is gently dilated (opened) using small instruments or medication.
• Curettage: A thin instrument called a curette is used to scrape or suction the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to remove tissue.

Who is it suitable for?

• Individuals experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding that needs diagnosis or treatment.
• Women who have had a miscarriage and need to clear the uterine lining.
• Patients with uterine polyps or fibroids that require removal.
• Those needing a biopsy of the uterine lining to diagnose conditions like endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.

Who is it not suitable for?

• Women who are pregnant (unless the procedure is necessary for miscarriage management).
• Individuals with certain infections or medical conditions that increase surgical risks.
• Patients who can manage their symptoms with less invasive treatments.

Advantages:

• Provides a definitive diagnosis for abnormal uterine conditions.
• Can effectively treat conditions like heavy bleeding, polyps, or fibroids.
• Often an outpatient procedure with a relatively quick recovery time.

Complications:

• Infection.
• Heavy bleeding.
• Perforation of the uterus.
• Formation of scar tissue in the uterus (Asherman’s syndrome).
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Previous Care:

• Preoperative evaluation including medical history and physical examination.
• Fasting for a certain period before the procedure.
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the healthcare provider.

Aftercare:

• Monitoring for any signs of complications such as heavy bleeding or infection.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and sexual intercourse for a specified period.
• Following up with the healthcare provider for postoperative check-ups.