Name of the Procedure:

Pelvic Examination Under Anesthesia (Other than Local)

• Common Names: Pelvic exam under general anesthesia, Comprehensive pelvic examination
• Technical Terms: Pelvic examination under GA (general anesthesia), EUA (Examination Under Anesthesia)

Summary

A pelvic examination under anesthesia involves a thorough examination of a woman's pelvic organs while she is under general anesthesia. This procedure allows for a complete assessment when a patient might experience pain or anxiety during a standard pelvic exam, or when a detailed examination is required for diagnostic purposes.

Purpose

• Medical Condition/Problem: Evaluation of pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or unexplained pelvic masses.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: To obtain a detailed assessment of the pelvic organs, diagnose underlying conditions, and collect samples for further testing, if necessary.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Severe pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, suspicion of pelvic masses, endometriosis, or vulvar/vaginal abnormalities.
• Patient Criteria: Patients who experience significant pain or anxiety during a regular pelvic exam, or when more detailed examination and biopsy collection are necessary.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions:
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure.
  • Arrangements for transportation post-procedure.
• Diagnostic Tests: Preoperative blood work, imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound), and medical history evaluation.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Administered by an anesthesiologist. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Examination: The gynecologist conducts a thorough internal and external examination of the pelvic organs.
3. Tools/Equipment: Speculum, biopsy forceps, swabs, ultrasound probe if necessary, and surgical instruments for tissue sample collection.
4. Additional Steps: Biopsies or other diagnostic procedures may be performed if abnormalities are detected.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room or a surgical center equipped for anesthesia.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved:
  • Gynecologist or specialized pelvic surgeon.
  • Anesthesiologist.
  • Surgical nurses and assistants.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Sore throat from intubation, nausea, and vomiting post-anesthesia.
• Rare Risks: Infection, bleeding, anesthetic complications, and damage to pelvic organs. Complications are managed with medications, additional procedures if necessary, and close monitoring.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Accurate diagnosis of pelvic conditions, relief from symptoms by identifying and treating underlying issues.
• Timing: The benefits are often realized soon after the procedure, especially if it leads to targeted treatment.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24-48 hours. Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Expected Recovery Time: Full recovery in a few days, with some minor discomfort possible for a short period.
• Follow-Up: Follow-up appointment for results discussion and further management.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Office-based pelvic examination, imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI), less invasive diagnostic procedures.
• Pros and Cons: While less invasive options might be preferable due to lower risk, they may not provide as comprehensive an assessment as an examination under anesthesia.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: The patient will be asleep and not feel anything during the procedure.
• After the Procedure: May experience mild discomfort, cramping, or spotting. Pain is managed with medications, and comfort measures include resting, hydration, and avoiding strenuous activities.