What are fibroids (or leiomyomata)?

Fibroids are benign muscles growths and they develop in uterus and rarely in ovaries, near the cervix or in uterine ligaments.

They cause fertility problems, pain and bowel dysfunction if are large enough.

Also, in some cases, they may cause pain during intercourse and urinary problems. A very common symptom is heavy periods.

Fibroids may develop on the outside of the uterus, within the walls of the uterus or into the lining of the uterus.

Which types of fibroids can be removed hysteroscopically?

The fibroids located in the lining of the womb or these ones which are into the uterine cavity can be removed hysteroscopically.

 

Hysteroscopic resection of a 5 centimeter - fibroid

What are the symptoms of fibroids located into the uterine cavity?

• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Painful periods
• Fertility problems 

How is the diagnosis of fibroids located into the uterine cavity made?

The diagnosis is made by speculum examination and transvaginal ultrasound.

What should I do?

Fibroids located into the uterine cavity are removed hysteroscopically.

What is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a way for the endoscopic surgeon doctor to look at the lining of the uterus.

Through this procedure it is used a hysteroscope, a tiny tube (it has diameter of 3 to 10 mm) which carries a light and camera at the end. The hysteroscope provides the image onto a high-definition video screen.

The hysteroscope is inserted into the womb through vagina and cervix, which means that there is no need for surgical wounds.

How is hysteroscopic resection of fibroids performed?

Using a hysteroscope, an instrument is inserted into the womb and it cut them in smaller segments. These segments are removed from the uterine cavity and sent for histological examination.

Is it necessary to stay at hospital after a hysteroscopy?

Usually, a mild sedative is used, so woman can discharge from the hospital few hours after the procedure.

How do I decide which option is better for me?

Talk to Gynecologist- Endoscopic surgeon Dr. Marinakis.

Doctor should examine you in order to be assured that there is an indication for an operative Hysteroscopy.

If they have discouraged you from Hysteroscopy, and you do not have enough information not only about the indications of the procedure, but also about your treatment planning, you may be in the wrong place!

Overall, hysteroscopy is a really safe procedure; however every single medical practice is safe only if it is managed by a specialist.

Gynecologist Dr. Marinakis specialises in gynecological hysteroscopy. He is certified in advanced laparoscopy and hysteroscopy by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He was also a member of Laparoscopic training unit “MATTU” in United Kingdom.

How much does a hysteroscopy cost?

The cost of a diagnostic hysteroscopy is low and it usually depends on your health insurance cover.