What is an endometrial biopsy? And what is the procedure

What is an Endometrial biopsy? Purpose, Procedure, and Risk

endometrial-biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is an examination in which the doctor obtains a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Through this examination, a doctor is able to find abnormalities in the cervix. A tissue sample then goes on to investigate the pathologist who checks for cell changes from abnormal tissues or variations in hormone levels. The research is helping to find the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, to inspect an overgrowth of the mucous membrane, or to check for cervical cancer. A gynecologist conducts the examination.

The following topics will be covered in this article's endometrial biopsy.

• Synonyms endometrial biopsy

• Indication of the biopsy of the endometrium

• Counter-indication biopsy of the uterine lining

• For the research

• During the examination: Doctor takes tissue sample from the uterine lining

• After investigation

• Research results

• Risks and side effects in the patient

Synonyms endometrial biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is also known under these synonyms

• Biopsy - Endometrium
• Endometrial sampling

Indication of the biopsy of the endometrium

Usually, this examination is done on a patient older than 35 years. When the doctor has seen a thickened uterine lining on an ultrasound, an endometrial biopsy is a possible follow-up examination. Bleeding after menopause ( menopausal bleeding ) or an abnormal menstrual period (heavy, prolonged or irregular bleeding) are also possible indications for this study. A woman who remains infertile ( female infertility), may also have been assisted with this study. In addition, a doctor conducts this examination to check the response of certain medications. This research is also necessary for preparation for IVF treatment. Finally, this study is useful in diagnosing cervical cancer (vaginal bleeding and vaginal discharge ).

Counter-indication biopsy of the uterine lining

This study is not possible for women who are or may be pregnant. An endometrial biopsy may lead to miscarriage. This examination is also not recommended for women with an abnormal narrowing (stenosis) of the cervical opening (cervix). Finally, a doctor does not conduct this study in patients with a bleeding disorder of cervical cancer, salpingitis ( inflammation of the fallopian tubes or salpinges) or acute cervical or vaginal infection.

For the research

Preparations

The patient reports which medicines she is using for the examination. She may need to stop these medicines temporarily or take a different dose on the advice of a doctor. The patient also reports to the doctor whether she is allergic to certain medication, is (possibly) pregnant, and whether she has lung or heart abnormalities. Finally, it is important that the patient arrange home transport when she is given this examination with anesthesia.

Practical

Two days before the examination, the patient should not insert creams, tampons, or other drugs into the vagina. Showering is not allowed before the biopsy as this may cause an infection of the vagina or uterus. Sometimes a patient may take a pain reliever thirty minutes to two hours before the examination; she also consults this with the doctor. Just before the examination, the patient takes off all clothes below the waist. The investigation takes five to fifteen minutes. Finally, the research is done on an outpatient basis. In other words, the patient can go home immediately after the examination.

During the examination

The doctor takes tissue sample from the uterine lining

Just before the examination, the patient empties the bladder. The patient will be administered a sedative by the physician on demand just before the examination. The patient lies with her back on an examination table, with the feet supported by footrests. The doctor gently inserts a lubricated speculum (instrument) into the vagina so that it remains open during the biopsy. In this way, the doctor is able to inspect the vagina and cervix. Inserting the instruments may feel cold to the patient. The doctor then cleans the cervix with a special liquid. Then she places a numbing medicine near the cervix. This local anesthetic happens with a spray or injection. The doctor then uses a tenaculum (a type of clamp) to gently hold the cervix in place. The patient feels a slight pressure, which is sometimes a bit uncomfortable. With another instrument, the doctor gently stretches the cervical opening when it is too tight. The next step is to gently insert an instrument through the cervix into the uterus. This instrument collects the tissue sample. Sometimes a patient has some cramps when the doctor performs the biopsy. Namely, he gently moves the instrument from top to bottom when collecting the tissue sample. Occasionally, a patient shows a vasovagal reaction during the examination. She is then dizzy and has stomach pain. This disappears when the doctor terminates the biopsy.

After investigation

Hospital

First, the doctor removes the tissue sample and instruments. A laboratory pathologist then examines the tissue under a microscope. The results are known after seven to ten days. The patient is in a recovery room if she has been given a sedative anesthetic. The patient may leave the hospital when she is awake and does not suffer from the anesthesia. It is best for a supervisor to take her home.

Life rules

It is best not to perform strenuous activities in the first days after the biopsy. Sex, showering, the use of tampons and heavy exertion are only allowed after the bleeding has stopped.

Research results

The results are known after seven to ten days. The patient then returns to the doctor and discusses the results with him.

Normal results in patients

A doctor does not detect abnormal cells or cancer in the tissue sample.

Abnormal results in patients

Abnormal results include, for example, uterine polyps (growths in the uterine wall), an infection, uterine cancer (abnormal vaginal bleeding) or a pre-stage ( hyperplasia ), an imbalance in hormonal balance and fibroids (benign growths in the uterus).

Risks and side effects in the patient

There are some risks and side effects associated with this study. A patient occasionally has mild cramps and mild vaginal bleeding for several days, for which she may use sanitary towels. Another complication is a (pelvic) infection. Rarely, a perforation in the uterus (uterine perforation) or a ruptured cervix occurs. Sometimes a patient bleeds for a long time.