Curettage, also known as curetting, refers to a medical procedure commonly used in surgery and gynecology. It involves the use of a curette, a thin, scoop-shaped instrument, to remove tissues or substances from a body cavity or surface.
In the field of surgery, curettage is often used to cure or treat various conditions, especially those involving abnormal tissue growth or infections. For example, it can be employed to remove abnormal tissue in the uterus, such as polyps, fibroids, or the lining in cases of endometrial hyperplasia. This procedure may also be performed to remove infected or dead tissue from wounds, ulcers, or abscesses, promoting healing and preventing further complications.
In gynecology, curettage is a common technique performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It can be utilized to collect tissue samples from the uterine lining (endometrium) to diagnose conditions like abnormal bleeding, uterine cancer, or to ascertain the cause of infertility. Additionally, it can be used as a treatment for cases of incomplete abortion, where remaining fetal tissue needs to be removed.
Curettage is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia, ensuring the patient's comfort during the procedure. Although generally safe, it may carry potential risks, including infection, bleeding, perforation, or damage to surrounding structures. Therefore, it is crucial to seek professional, medical advice and guidance before undergoing curettage.
