Curettage involves scraping the lining and removing uterine contents with a long, spoon-shaped instrument (a curette). The doctor may also use a cannula to suction any remaining contents from the uterus. This can cause some cramping. A tissue sample then goes to a lab for examination.
Why is curettage done?
Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure to remove tissue from inside your uterus. Doctors perform dilation and curettage to diagnose and treat certain uterine conditions — such as heavy bleeding — or to clear the uterine lining after a miscarriage or abortion.
What is a curettage in medical terms?
Curettage: Removal of tissue with a curette from the wall of a cavity or another surface. Curettage may also be done in the uterus; dilation and curettage (D&C) refers to the dilation (widening) of the cervical canal to permit curettage of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus.
Is curettage and Electrodesiccation painful?
Risks associated with curettage and electrodesiccation are typically minimal if performed by an experienced doctor. Complications can include: Pain, swelling, crusting or bleeding at the affected site. Scarring that can be painful and itchy long term.
Are you intubated with general anesthesia?
Intubation is required when general anesthesia is given. The anesthesia drugs paralyze the muscles of the body, including the diaphragm, which makes it impossible to take a breath without a ventilator. Most patients are extubated, meaning the breathing tube is removed, immediately after surgery.
What kind of anesthesia is used for colonoscopy?
Most often, either moderate sedation or deep sedation with the anesthetic propofol are used for colonoscopies. An anesthesiologist is sometimes present for moderate sedation — sometimes called conscious sedation by patients, though the term is technically incorrect.
Is propofol used for D&C?
Traditionally propofol has been used for providing sedation in dilatation and curettage (D and C).
Are you intubated for D&C?
Before or during your D&C, you may receive some type of anesthesia. You and your health care provider will discuss the type to be used. With general anesthesia, you will not be awake during the procedure. You will receive medication either through an intravenous line or a mask.
What anesthesia is used for D&C?
Most D&Cs are done under general anesthesia. The procedure is typically very short, and general anesthetic can be quickly reversed, with the patient going home later the same day.
What are the side effects of anesthesia?
You may experience common side effects such as:
