What to expect with hysteroscopy surgery in Chicago, IL
At Northwestern Women’s Health Associates, we offer patients in and around Chicago, diagnostic and surgery procedures that can be used to improve their reproductive health and decrease abnormal uterine bleeding. Our team of doctors provides a wide range of procedures, including treatments using hysteroscopy. We can walk women through what to expect to help them feel more at ease before, during, and after their treatment in our office.
Understanding hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy is a specialized procedure that allows a professional to look directly into the uterus for the diagnosis or treatment of a variety of reproductive health concerns. It is typically used to evaluate and examine the cause of problems such as abnormal bleeding. Using a thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope, the doctor will examine the cervix and uterus through the vagina. There are two types of hysteroscopy procedures: diagnostic and operative.
Diagnostic hysteroscopy
During a diagnostic hysteroscopy, the doctor utilizes the hysteroscope to help determine the cause of symptoms or problems reported by the patient. In most cases, it is used to identify the source of pain or unusual bleeding.. In our office a sonohystogram will often be done before a hysteroscopy to see if hysteroscopy is even needed. A sonohystogram is a procedure in which saline is injected into to uterus under ultrasound guidance to see if there are any defects in the uterine cavity, such as abnormal growths, scar tissue, issues with the uterine lining, or abnormal uterine shape. Sometimes a hysterosalpingogram would be done instead which is a special x-ray dye test to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes
Operative hysteroscopy
If the source of the problem is found during a sonohysterogram or diagnostic hysteroscopy, then patients will often have an operative procedure to treat the issue done in the same manner. Using the hysteroscope, the doctor will perform a specialized procedure. Small instruments are utilized through the hysteroscope to address the problem, such as the removal of a fibroid or polyp. Patients may also have operative hysteroscopies performed to address:
- Adhesions
- A uterine septum
- Abnormal bleeding
When should a hysteroscopy be performed?
It is best for patients to work with a doctor who they know and trust to determine if they are in need of a sonohysterogram or diagnostic or operative hysteroscopy. In many cases, this will be the best way for the doctor to evaluate a problem and provide a proper diagnosis, as well as a minimally invasive treatment to get patients back to living their life without reproductive issues. These procedures may not be appropriate for some patients, so it is best for individuals to consult with their doctor about this and other options available to them for consideration.
What to expect during a hysteroscopy
It is important for patients to feel at ease about having their diagnostic or operative hysteroscopy performed. In many cases, the doctor may offer a sedative to help the patient relax prior to performing the procedure. Anesthesia may also be used, depending on the procedure being performed at the time. The cervix will be dilated to allow the hysteroscope to be inserted comfortably through the vagina. Saline infusion will be used to clear away mucus or blood to provide a clear image for the doctor. The light and camera in the hysteroscope allows the doctor to evaluate the uterus. During an operative hysteroscopy, small instruments are inserted through the device to perform surgical procedures, such as removing lesions.
How long will a hysteroscopy take?
For diagnostic procedures, patients can expect their procedure to last less than an hour. However, for operative procedures through a hysteroscope, some patients may be in the care of their doctor for over an hour. There are many factors involved in the timeframe needed for a procedure, especially if other treatments are being performed simultaneously.
For women in or near Chicago, the staff at Northwestern Women’s Health Associates S.C. can be extremely helpful in assisting them in achieving better gynecological health and wellness. If you have a concern about your uterus or are interested in learning more about whether hysteroscopy surgery is right for you, we encourage you to book a consultation with one of our professionals to find out if you are an appropriate candidate. Our team of doctors include Dr. Stanley Friedell, Dr. Abbie Roth, Dr. Regina Belmonte, Dr. Sharon Wise, Dr. Julianne Morton, and Dr. Whitney Dunn.
We welcome new and existing patients into our practice for comprehensive gynecological care. Call 312-440-9400 today and visit our team, conveniently located at 680 North Lake Shore Drive, Ste. 1200.