Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look at the inside of the uterus. During hysteroscopy, a lighted viewing instrument (hysteroscope) is inserted through the vagina and cervix and into the uterus.
Hysteroscopy is done to examine the lining of the uterus (endometrium), help collect a biopsy sample, and guide surgery to remove growths in the uterus. It usually is done while the woman is unconscious (general anesthesia), although a local or spinal anesthetic may be used. A gynecologist or surgeon performs the procedure, which usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. The woman can usually go home the same day.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
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