Endometrial Curettage

Endometrial scraping is a procedure that an increasing number of women undergo these days, as various conditions of the reproductive system have become very common. Endometrial scraping is a procedure in which, usually after general anesthesia, a portion of the endometrium—the inner lining of the uterus—is removed. This is a diagnostic procedure, as it is used to identify any abnormalities or malformations affecting the endometrium.

The purpose of the curettage is, on the one hand, to empty the uterine cavity of any type of contents (e.g., polyps, pregnancy remnants) and, on the other hand, to remove part of the endometrium (the inner layer of the uterus associated with the menstrual cycle and period) for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons. Technically, this is achieved by gently dilating the cervix and using a special instrument that is passed over the endometrium, removing it. The procedure is performed exclusively vaginally, under general anesthesia or sedation, and lasts approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on the case. Postoperatively, the patient may experience mild abdominal pain and a small amount of vaginal bleeding, but she can usually return home within a few hours. Please note that curettage cannot remove any fibroids or endometrial polyps.

Fortunately, hysteroscopy is available to us because it is a minimally invasive, unique, and irreplaceable method for treating all problems of the inner lining of the uterus. The patient usually does not need to remain in the hospital for more than an hour after the procedure and returns to her normal activities the next day, with absolutely no restrictions. Endometrial scraping is a particularly safe procedure. Any complications that occur may be due either to injury to the uterus from surgical instruments (e.g., perforation) or to a postoperative infection. However, as a rule, with careful technique and the use of prophylactic antibiotics, complication rates remain extremely low.