ENDOMETRIAL BIOPSY

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of tissue from the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Inner lining of the uterus; vagina (as route for surgery).

REASONS FOR SURGERY--Investigation of fertility in a patient who has been unable to become pregnant; investigation of bleeding between menstrual periods or postmenopausal bleeding. Laboratory examination of the removed tissue aids in diagnosis. If appropriate, the surgery is performed during the last 2 weeks of the patient's menstrual cycle. This is the best time to identify possible hormonal problems and to determine if ovulation is occurring.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH--None expected.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Obstetrician-gynecologist, general surgeon or family doctor.

WHERE PERFORMED--Doctor's office; outpatient surgical facility; or hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Pap smear; pregnancy test.
• After surgery: Laboratory examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--Usually none. Your doctor may prescribe a mild tranquilizer before surgery to calm you.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open and to bring the cervix into view.
• A small, spoon-shaped instrument is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. It is gently scraped against the inner lining of the uterus to gather tissue.
• The instruments are removed. The surgery may cause slight pain, but it should be minor and temporary.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Inadvertent injury to the uterus (rare).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--Usually none.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Tissue obtained successfully without complications in virtually all cases. Allow about 1 week for recovery from surgery. During this time, you should expect vaginal discharge.

Postoperative Care

† Bathe or shower as usual. Use non--

perfumed soap.

• Wear sanitary pads for the rest of this menstrual period. Avoid tampons temporarily; they may lead to infection. Your menstrual flow may be heavier than usual. > Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid panties made from nylon, polyester, silk or other non-ventilating materials. > Don't douche unless your doctor recommends it.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY---Resume daily activities and work as soon as possible.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Vaginal discharge increases or begins to have an unpleasant odor.

• You experience pain that simple medication does not relieve quickly.
• Unusually heavy vaginal swelling or bleeding develops.