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D and C

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Definition:

D and C is a procedure to scrape and collect the tissue (endometrium) from inside the uterus. Dilatation ("D") is a widening of the cervix to allow instruments into the uterus. Curettage ("C") is the scraping of the contents of the uterus.

Alternative Names:

Dilatation and curettage; Uterus scraping

Description:

D and C, also called uterine scraping, is a fairly minor surgical procedure. The procedure may be performed in the hospital or in a clinic using general or local anesthesia.

The vaginal canal is held open by a speculum, and the opening to the uterus ( cervix ) may be anesthetized. The cervical canal is widened using a metal rod, and a curette (a metal loop on the end of a long, thin handle) is passed through the canal into the uterine cavity. The inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) is scraped away, and the tissue is collected for examination.

Indications:

Uterine scraping (D and C) may be done to:

• Diagnose conditions using the tissue samples collected ( biopsies )
• Treat irregular or heavy bleeding
• Remove fetal or placental tissue -- used for some elective or therapeutic abortions and to remove any remaining tissue after a spontaneous abortion ( miscarriage )

D and C may be recommended for:

• Bleeding between periods
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Investigation of infertility
• Endometrial polyps
• Uterine cancer (early diagnosis)
• Thickening of the uterus (endometrial hyperplasia )
• An embedded IUD (intrauterine device)
• Therapeutic or elective abortion
• Miscarriage
• Postmenopausal bleeding, or abnormal bleeding while taking hormone replacement therapy medications

• Review Date: 6/6/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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