Endocervical curettage (ECC) is a pathological procedure performed to detect the presence of cancer cells in the cervix. A spoon-shaped medical instrument called Curette is used in the process to scra.....
Endocervical curettage (ECC) is a pathological procedure performed to detect the presence of cancer cells in the cervix. A spoon-shaped medical instrument called Curette is used in the process to scrape out tissues from endocervical canal.
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Steps to take before the procedure
The patient is not allowed to take blood thinners, or douche the vagina at least 24 hours before the procedure. The patient cannot have sexual intercourse for around three days, before the scheduled date. A pregnant woman during menstruation is unlikely to go through this procedure.
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What happens during the procedure?
During the procedure, the patient will have to lie on a table and put her feet into stirrups. The cervix and vagina will be moistened with an iodine solution to remove mucus and highlight the area that is being biopsied. Curette, a spoon-shaped instrument is used to scrape the mucous membrane of the cervical canal.
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After Endocervical Curettage
The patient cannot have sexual intercourse until one week after the surgery. It is best to avoid straining the area. Post-surgery, the patient is advised not to exercise for the next 24 hours. In the case of continuous vaginal bleeding, fever, stomach ache, or bad smelling discharge, doctor's assistance should be taken immediately.
The advantages of Endocervical Curettage procedure are:
The procedure helps in diagnosing and treating many conditions, such as non-cancerous growth on the cervix, genital warts, infection with HPV, Diethylstilbestrol (DES) etc. The procedure is not time-consuming and generally does not require a stay in the hospital.
The risks associated with Endocervical Curettage procedure are:
There is no serious complication attached to the procedure. An infection or heavy bleeding may occur rarely. During or after the surgery, the patient may experience mild cramps for the next few days. There can also be mild swelling of the area. Vaginal bleeding or a dark discharge is also expected to occur
The limitations of the Endocervical Curettage procedure are:
- Painful procedure.
- Inadequate sampling.
- Diagnostic inaccuracy.
