Diagnostic hysteroscopy

Diagnostic hysteroscopy allows the gynaecologist to look directly inside the womb (the uterine cavity) using a hysteroscope, a very thin tube fitted with a camera and a light source. The instrument is passed through the vagina and then the cervix: there is no incision and no scar. To get a clear view, the cavity is gently filled with a sterile fluid. The gynaecologist examines the lining, the shape of the cavity and the openings of the fallopian tubes. If needed, a small sample of the lining (biopsy) is taken for analysis. The examination is usually done as an outpatient procedure, without anaesthesia or under local anaesthesia; a short general anaesthetic is possible depending on the situation. This examination is offered when an ultrasound shows an abnormality of the cavity, in cases of unusual bleeding, or as part of an assessment for infertility or recurrent miscarriage. It often gives a precise diagnosis within a few minutes and, if necessary, leads on to an operative hysteroscopy. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, diagnostic hysteroscopy is performed by gynaecologists experienced in the procedure, in a suitable room. What was seen is explained to the patient at the end of the examination, and the biopsy result, if any, at the follow-up appointment.