Dr Komala's Women Clinic - LAVH

What is a Hysteroscopic Polypectomy?

Polypectomy is the removal of a polyp. A polyp is an abnormal tissue growth on the mucous membrane, most commonly seen in the colon and uterus. Hysteroscopy is a thin, telescope-like piece of medical equipment used to diagnose and treat problems of the uterus. Hence, hysteroscopic polypectomy is the removal of polyps present on the uterus lining by inserting small equipment through it called a hysteroscope. Polyps are not cancerous, but if left untreated, they can turn into cancer cells eventually and cause several issues in your body.

Hence, if you notice abnormalities, it is advisable to contact your doctor and talk about your symptoms.

How Do You Know You Need a Hysteroscopic Polypectomy?

Many women might not even know whether they have polyps growing in their uterus. It is usually found during screening tests or if a woman experiences any symptoms of polyps. Estrogen, which helps in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system, is also suspected to be one of the causes. 

You should contact your doctor immediately and discuss your problems if you experience severe symptoms such as:

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause
  • Heavy bleeding during menstruation
  • Bleeding when you are not on your periods

The symptoms may also vary from mild to severe. Some women may only have light bleeding, while others may not have any symptoms at all. If this condition is causing you pain, you might immediately need a polypectomy after talking with your doctor.

Why is Hysteroscopic Polypectomy Conducted?

This surgery is done to remove the non-cancerous growth called polyps on the lining of your uterus. They should be removed because they can cause many issues in your body and result in intense pain. The exact cause of polyps is still unknown, but they are linked with the fluctuations in hormone levels in our bodies.

When Should Hysteroscopic Polypectomy be Performed?

After conducting a physical examination and various tests and understanding your condition completely, your doctor will set a date for the surgery. Usually, it is performed in the first week after your menstrual period. This is because doctors can view your uterus in the best manner possible at this time. 

What To Do Before the Hysteroscopic Polypectomy

Your doctor will conduct different tests and physical examinations and study the problem closely. Also, they will ask you not to eat or drink anything for a few hours before the surgery so that the path will be cleared. 

What Happens During the Surgery?

The surgery starts with administering general anesthesia to the patient. After this, the surgery continues in the following manner: 

  • The doctor widens your cervix as the hysteroscope will pass through it.
  • The hysteroscope is then inserted through your vagina and guided through your cervix into the uterus to the location of the polyp growth.
  • The specialist will insert a liquid solution to clear any blood or mucus and widen the cavity.
  • The hysteroscope allows the doctor to see the uterus lining easily.
  • Small instruments are then inserted through the scope, and the polyps are removed one by one.

The time required for the surgery will depend on the severity of the condition and if the lumps are small or big. Usually, it takes up to an hour to complete the procedure. The time taken during polypectomy is much less than the traditional method. You will be recommended to undergo hysteroscopic surgery only after your specialist discusses it with your doctor and confirms it is appropriate for your body. 

What Happens After the Surgery?

You may need to stay at the hospital for a day. Depending on the severity of the polyps, it may take some time to recover, which is usually two to three weeks. It is very common to experience light bleeding and cramping after the procedure. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, you should immediately talk with your doctor. Your doctor may also prescribe you pain relief medicine if you are in pain after the surgery. The hospital stay after polypectomy is reduced considerably compared to traditional surgery methods. 

What are the Benefits of this Procedure?

This procedure provides the following advantages over other methods:

  • Reduced hospital stay
  • No stitches or cuts required
  • Less time-consuming
  • Fast recovery
  • Less pain
  • In some conditions, this procedure may be the only option.
  • Improves the quality of life

It also increases the rate of fertility in women who had problems getting pregnant due to polyps. 

What are the Risks of Hysteroscopic Polypectomy?

Hysteroscopic polypectomy is relatively a very safe procedure. However, as all procedures have some risks and complications, this surgery is not an exception either. Some risk factors are: 

  • Heavy bleeding
  • Infection in the urinary tract
  • Injury in the surrounding tissue, which is very rare
  • Incomplete polyp removal
  • Risks related to anesthesia
  • Reaction to the liquid solution used to widen the uterus

 

If any risks manifest, your doctor will guide you through every step gradually. Hence, it is very important to discuss everything with your doctor without leaving out any relevant information. This will enable your doctors to help you to the best of their abilities.

Yes, endometrial polyps (polyps in the uterus) can recur in some cases. It is very rare for polyps to grow at the same origin point, but it is not impossible.

Hysteroscopic surgery is considered minor surgery, and patients recover in just a few days. However, in some cases and under different circumstances, it may take a while to recover fully

In some women, polyps may go away naturally and not require any treatment. If they cause pain and are precancerous, they need to be removed through surgery.

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