D&C
Alternative names:
dilatation and curettage; uterus scraping
Definition:
Procedure to scrape and collect the tissue (endometrium) from inside the uterus.
Description:
Uterine scraping (dilatation and curettage: D&C) is a fairly minor surgical procedure. The procedure may be performed in the hospital or in an clinic using general or local anesthesia. The vaginal canal is held open by a speculum and the opening to the uterus (cervix) is anesthetized (not always). The cervical canal is widened (dilated) using a metal rod and a curette (a metal loop on the end of a long thin handle) is then passed through the canal into the uterine cavity. The inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) is scraped away and the tissue is collected for examination.
Indications:
Uterine scraping (D&C) may be done to: - diagnose conditions using the tissue samples collected (biopsies)
- treat irregular bleeding
- remove fetal or placental tissue ( used for some elective or theraputic abortions and to remove any remaining tissue after a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage))
Uterine scraping (D&C) may be recommended for:
|
