Name of the Procedure:

Dilation of cervical canal, instrumental (separate procedure). Commonly referred to as cervical dilation.

Summary

Cervical dilation is a gynecological procedure where the cervical canal is widened using specialized instruments. This is often done to allow access to the uterus for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Purpose

Cervical dilation addresses issues such as abnormal uterine bleeding, incomplete miscarriage, and for facilitating certain gynecological procedures like biopsies or the insertion of intrauterine devices (IUDs). The goal is to enable access to the uterus for further treatment or examination.

Indications

• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Diagnostic purposes like obtaining endometrial biopsy
• Incomplete miscarriage management
• Facilitating other procedures like hysteroscopy or IUD insertion
• Cervical stenosis (narrowing of the cervical canal)

Preparation

• Follow your physician’s instructions regarding fasting, usually from midnight before the procedure.
• Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking; adjustments may be necessary.
• Undergo any required diagnostic tests such as pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the uterine and cervical structure.

Procedure Description

1. You will be positioned on a gynecological exam table.
2. The doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
3. Local anesthesia or sedation may be administered to minimize discomfort.
4. Gradual dilation of the cervical canal is performed using dilators of increasing size.
5. Instruments such as a hysteroscope may be inserted for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
6. Once the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Gynecologist or trained specialist
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Anesthesiologist or sedation nurse, if sedation is required

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Uterine perforation (rare)
• Cervical lacerations
• Excessive bleeding
• Reaction to anesthesia or sedation

Benefits

• Improved access to the uterus for diagnosing or treating medical conditions
• Relief from symptoms associated with the underlying condition (e.g., abnormal bleeding)
• Successful completion of necessary diagnostic or therapeutic interventions

Recovery

• Post-procedure, you may experience mild cramping or spotting.
• Take prescribed pain relievers as needed.
• Avoid inserting anything into the vagina, like tampons, for at least a week or as advised.
• Follow any activity restrictions and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.

Alternatives

• Medical management of the condition with medication
• Non-invasive diagnostic procedures like ultrasound
• Endometrial ablation, if applicable for abnormal bleeding
• Each alternative comes with its own set of benefits and risks compared to cervical dilation, and your doctor can help determine the best option for you.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, you may feel pressure or mild discomfort. Post-procedure, mild cramping and spotting are typical. Pain management will be provided as necessary, and comfort measures, such as warm compresses, may help alleviate discomfort during recovery.