Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is a medical procedure that involves two main components: dilation and curettage. It is often performed by gynecologists for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Dilation refers to the widening or opening of a body cavity or passageway. In the context of D&C, dilation typically refers to the gradual enlargement of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, using medical instruments such as dilators or medication. This is done to provide access to the uterine cavity for further examination or treatment.
Curettage, on the other hand, refers to the removal of tissue or foreign substances from a body cavity or surface using a curette, a specialized surgical instrument with a scoop-like or spoon-shaped end. During a D&C, curettage involves the scraping or suctioning of the uterine lining (endometrium) to collect tissue samples for diagnostic purposes, remove retained products of conception after a miscarriage or abortion, or address other uterine conditions such as abnormal bleeding or polyps.
D&C is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia in an operating room or outpatient setting. It can be utilized for several purposes, including the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding, endometrial cancer, uterine polyps or fibroids, or as a therapeutic measure for incomplete abortions or miscarriages. The procedure may be performed with different techniques depending on the specific circumstances or the healthcare provider's preference.
It is worth noting that while D&C is generally considered safe, it does carry certain risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, uterine perforation, or injury to nearby organs. Therefore, it is crucial that the procedure is performed by a trained healthcare professional in a proper medical setting.
