Polypectomy
Polyps are small tumour like growth found inside the uterine cavity and are usually overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Majority are non cancerous overgrowth and treatment is removal. Some polyps can be cancerous or precancerous.
Polyps are localized, pedunculated or sessile tissue growths, soft in consistency and presents with abnormal bleeding. (heavy bleeding or irregular bleeding). Intrauterine polyps can cause for infertility or post menopausal bleeding.
- Abnormal hormonal secretion play a role in polyp formation. Uterine polyps are estrogen-sensitive, and are found often in women with excessive estrogen secretion. Once removed with hysteroscope, progesterone therapy in form of cyclical progesterones or LNG-IUCD (Mirena) is advised to prevent recurrence.
Signs and symptoms of uterine polyps
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Spotting or heavy bleeding in between menstrual cycles.
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Infertility
Hysteroscopic polypectomy is the gold standard treatment of symptomatic polyps. During the procedure a hysteroscope is passed into the vagina and into the uterus. After visualising the polyp, the base is identified and is then removed using either a scissors, loop or bipolar needle. Complete removal of the base of the polyp prevents the likely hood of recurrence on the same site. The operation is relatively minor and takes about 30 minutes to perform. It is almost always done as day care surgery. The removed polyp is then sent for histopathological examination. Removing polyps can improve the abnormal bleeding, preventing the need for a major surgery like hysterectomy. It also improves fertility in women suffering from infertility due to polyps.