Hysteroscopy

University of Chicago Medicine gynecologic surgeons are experts in hysteroscopy, a technique to look into and operate inside the uterus. Hysteroscopy provides a minimally invasive option to establish a diagnose or treat uterine abnormalities — such as heavy or abnormal bleeding, fibroids, polyps and more — with no incisions and minimal anesthesia.

A slender telescope, called a hysteroscope, is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The uterus is examined, and any abnormalities, such as polyps, fibroids or scar tissue, can be removed using tiny instruments introduced through the hysteroscope. Hysteroscopy also can be performed with dilation and curettage (D&C) or endometrial ablation to treat heavy or irregular bleeding.

Because there are no incisions, hysteroscopy is performed as an outpatient procedure. Recovery is rapid, with most patients returning to their normal activities the next day.

Conditions treated with hysteroscopy include the following:

• Irregular, heavy or postmenopausal bleeding
• Polyps
• Uterine adhesions 
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine septum