Ultrasound Guided D&C
Women should be offered ultrasound guided D&C as standard. Ultrasound-guided D&C for miscarriage is a surgical procedure using real-time imaging to safely remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus. It increases safety, reduces the risk of incomplete evacuation, uterine perforation, and scarring (Asherman’s syndrome) compared to traditional “blind” methods. It is a swift, outpatient procedure typically lasting 15-30 minutes.
All options should be discussed with the patient before being booked for surgical treatment.
Using imaging allows the surgeon to see the surgical site, reducing the risks of uterine perforation and damaging nearby structures. It ensures all pregnancy tissue is removed, lowering the risk of needing a second procedure (Retained Products of Conception).
Importantly it lowers the risk of Asherman’s Syndrome. By directing instruments more carefully, the risk of developing uterine scarring, which can affect future fertility, is reduced.
It must be introduced as best practice for complex cases. While traditional blind D&Cs are often safe, ultrasound guidance is particularly beneficial for complex cases.
A patient should be warned about the risk of Asherman’s syndrome, the risk to her fertility of having a D&C and the desire to preserve fertility should be taken into account when attending for advice and treatment.
A D&C can cause adhesions which in turn cause infertility.
We really are failing women (again) when treatments are used which have known, but preventable, risks. Where there are safer options they should be used first and always.
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If you’re ready to discuss your situation or have any questions please contact Dr Victoria Handley today. Don’t suffer in silence. Call FREE on 0800 470 2009 or email vhandley@handleylaw.co.uk