Curettage of cervical canal
Cervical canal curettage, also known as endocervical curettage (ECC), is a medical procedure that involves scraping a small tissue sample from the endocervical canal, a narrow passage connecting the cervix to the uterus. This procedure is conducted for diagnosing or treating various cervical conditions. At the "Dobrobut" medical network, experienced gynecologists perform this procedure using modern equipment and international guidelines.
Indications for Cervical Canal Curettage:
Cervical canal curettage is typically performed when there is a need to assess abnormal cervical cells or determine the cause of symptoms that may indicate women's health issues. Common situations where ECC may be indicated include:
- abnormal Pap smear results;
- unexplained abnormal bleeding;
- suspicion of cervical or endometrial cancer;
- assessment of polyps or hyperplasia;
- follow-up after treatment of cervical dysplasia.
Contraindications for Cervical Canal Curettage:
ECC may be contraindicated in certain cases. Main contraindications include:
- acute inflammatory and infectious processes in the genitourinary system and pelvic organs;
- pregnancy;
- recently performed cervical procedures, such as biopsy;
- suspicion of cervical cancer without prior diagnosis;
- severe cardiovascular diseases or other conditions that increase surgical risk.
Before performing cervical canal curettage, the doctor evaluates the patient’s overall health, any existing medical conditions, and potential risks to ensure the procedure's safety and effectiveness.
Symptoms that Warrant Medical Attention:
Symptoms that may indicate the need for cervical canal curettage include:
- changes in vaginal bleeding patterns, especially if occurring between menstrual periods or after intercourse;
- watery, bloody, or unusual vaginal discharge;
- pain or discomfort in the pelvic area;
- painful sensations during intercourse;
- unusual or prolonged bleeding after menopause.
These symptoms may indicate various conditions, ranging from benign polyps to more serious problems like precancerous changes or cervical cancer.
It is important to consult a doctor if any of the above symptoms develop. Early diagnosis increases the chances for timely treatment with better outcomes.
Technique of Cervical Canal Curettage:
Cervical canal curettage serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Prior to curettage, diagnostics may include: detailed medical history, physical examination, Pap smear and HPV testing, colposcopy (detailed examination of the cervix using a special microscope), biopsy of suspicious areas, and transvaginal ultrasound to assess the uterus and ovaries.
Procedure Steps:
- Insertion of speculum to visualize the cervix.
- Direct curettage using a special curette for careful scraping of the endocervical canal and tissue collection.
- Sending the collected tissue to a laboratory for further examination.
The procedure usually lasts from 10 to 20 minutes and can be performed in an outpatient setting. To minimize discomfort, local anesthesia or sedatives may be used.
Recovery Period:
Recovery after cervical canal curettage is typically quick. Patients may experience mild cramping and spotting for several days. It is recommended to avoid intense physical activity, intimate relations, and tampon use until full healing (about a week). If severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection such as fever occur, the doctor should be notified immediately.
Prevention:
Preventive measures for conditions warranting cervical canal curettage include:
- Regular gynecological exams, Pap smears, and HPV tests.
- Use of barrier contraceptives (condoms) to reduce infection risk.
- Quitting smoking, a risk factor for cervical cancer development.
- Vaccination against certain HPV types linked to cervical cancer.
Adherence to these guidelines helps maintain cervical health, ensures early diagnosis, and facilitates the treatment of oncological diseases.
