Office hysteroscopy: back to the future!

Abstract

Hysteroscopy and anesthesia have come a long way in the last 150 years. While traditionally performed in the operating theater under general anesthesia, the alternative approach – so-called ‘office’ hysteroscopy – has gained popularity in recent years. Supporters of this modality cite the ‘see and treat’ capabilities, avoidance of anesthesia, more rapid turn-around time, and favorable economics as advantages. On the other hand, some question the success rate, capabilities, and patient comfort levels as potential drawbacks. In this article, we review the evidence behind all of these points as well as the requirements for setting up an office hysteroscopy service.

摘要

宫腔镜技术和麻醉在过去的150年里取得了长足的进步。虽然传统上, 宫腔镜操作是在手术室中的全麻下进行, 但另一种方法, 即所谓的“门诊”宫腔镜, 近年来已广受欢迎。这种方法的支持者认为此种宫腔镜具备“观察同时治疗”能力、避免麻醉、周转时间更快和经济效益更佳的优势。另一方面, 一些人质疑此种宫腔镜方法, 包括成功率、适应人群存疑以及患者舒适度不佳的缺点。在这篇文章中, 我们回顾了所有这些观点背后的证据以及建立门诊宫腔镜服务的要求。

Keywords:

• Hysteroscopy
• office
• outpatient
• ambulatory
• endoscopy
• gynecology

Potential conflict of interest

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Source of funding

Nil.