Dr. Sumana Manohar is one of the best obstetricians and gynaecologists in the country with over 34 years of experience. Currently associated with Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, Dr. Sumana Manohar specializes in Reproductive Medicine, Infertility Treatment, Endoscopic Surgery, Robotic Surgery, and High-Risk Obstetrics. Dr. Sumana Manohar has expertise in laparoscopic and hysteroscopic Surgery, Rapid Access and Colposcopy, Antenatal Services and Ambulatory Obstetrics.
After completing her MBBS from Sri Venkateshwara Medical College, Dr. Sumana Mahohar trained and worked as a visiting fellow at various hospitals in UK where she was conferred with MRCOG(London) and FRCOG(London).
Dr. Sumana Manohar is a member of prestigious organizations including the Fellow Representative of South Zone AICC RCOG, Association of Tamil Nadu Royal College of Obstetrians and Gynaecologists, and many more. She has published her research work in national and international acclaimed medical journals and is the co-editor of Mid Life Health Magazine. She has organized conferences and workshops on endoscopy, robotic surgery, infertility, and high-risk pregnancies.
Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a procedure where a thin, lighted tube or hysteroscope is inserted into the vagina to examine the inside of the uterus. Hysteroscopy can be used as a diagnostic or surgical procedure. It is recommended:
- to diagnose and stop heavy vaginal bleeding
- to remove polyps, adhesions, and fibroids from the uterus
- to diagnose abnormalities or defects such as septum in the uterus
- as a precursor to another procedure such as D&C
- together with a laparoscopic surgery
- for confirming results of HSG or other tests
- for certain infertility treatments
- if the PAP Smear test results are abnormal
- if there is post-menopausal spotting or bleeding
- if there have been miscarriages
- for biopsy
- for sterilization procedures for birth control
- if the IUD or Intrauterine device is displaced
The Hysteroscopy Procedure
Diagnostic hysteroscopy is performed in the first week after the menstrual cycle for best results. It may be done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia if necessary. The procedure entails:
- Drugs to dilate the cervix may be given a day before or a few hours before the procedure.
- The cervix is opened with the help of an instrument known as the speculum.
- The hysteroscope will be inserted into the uterus through the cervix gently.
- Carbon dioxide gas or a liquid is pushed into the uterus through the hysteroscope to expand it for a clearer view
- The gynaecologist can take pictures or videos and examine the uterine walls and fallopian tubes. Tissues sample can be removed in case of conducting a biopsy through hysteroscopy.
- Other surgical instrument(s) is inserted through the hysteroscope to remove fibroids or polyps if any
- For more complex surgical procedures, a laparoscope may be inserted through a tiny incision in the belly.
- Once the operation is complete, the hysteroscope is pulled out from the uterus.
After a hysteroscopy, recovery may take a few weeks. Some women may experience:
- Cramping resembling period pains
- vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Digestive tract issues due to the gas inserted during hysteroscopy.
- Nauseous due to the anesthesia if administered at the time of the procedure
However, it is best to report them to the gynaecologist if suffering from unexpected symptoms including:
- Persistent sharp pain in abdomen
- Heavy bleeding
- Presence of blood clots
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Fever
Success Rate of Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy has been proven to be highly effective for diagnostic and minor surgical procedures. Most women experience slight cramping and bleeding and can get back to their normal lives within a few days.
However, hysteroscopy cannot be performed on women who:
- Are pregnant
- Have an active pelvic infection
- Have cervical or uterine cancers
- Have an obstruction in the cervical canal
- Have a narrow cervix
- Have abnormally positioned uterus
Conclusion
Several studies on the impact of hysteroscopy in various treatments are being evaluated. For example, it has been reported that removing polyps by hysteroscopy increases the chances of pregnancy. Before undergoing hysteroscopy, it is recommended that a discussion be held with the gynaecologist to evaluate risk factors, if any, for the individual.