Hysteroscopy

Abstract

Hysteroscopy is a 'new' endoscopic approach for the gynecologist. The development and refinement of the sophisticated fiberoptic light system can illuminate the darkness of the uterine cavity. Polyps can be differentiated from submucous myomas; intrauterine adhesions can be accurately 'mapped' and classified, with synechiae under direct vision; endometrial carcinoma can be diagnose and possibly staged; embedded intrauterine devices can be identified and dislodged; the wastebasket diagnosis of 'dysfunctional uterine bleeding' can be cleaned up; submucosal myomas and uterine septa can be resected; and successful transuterine sterilization may become a reality. If culdoscopy is menopausal and laparoscopy in its reproductive years, hysteroscopy is certainly in its infancy.