Endometrial Biopsy (Biopsy, Endometrial)
Posted July 1, 2008 7:41 PM
Posted in
(Biopsy, Endometrial)
Click here to view an animated version of this procedure.
Definition
A procedure to remove a tissue sample from the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium)
The Endometrium
© 2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
Reasons for Procedure
- Evaluate the cause of bleeding in postmenopausal women
- Evaluate abnormally heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding between menstrual periods
- Obtain a tissue specimen to test for cancerous or precancerous conditions
- Monitor the uterine lining in women on estrogen replacement therapy
- Help evaluate the cause of infertility or repeated miscarriages
Risk Factors for Complications During the Procedure
- If you are pregnant, the test cannot be done
- If you have a narrow cervical canal, there may not be room to insert the biopsy tools
- If you had radiation therapy to the area, it may be difficult to get a sample
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
You may need to schedule the biopsy for a certain time during your menstrual cycle.
Your doctor will likely do the following:
- Physical and pelvic exam
- Blood work
- Urine test
The day of your procedure:
Anesthesia
Possibly a mild sedative or local anesthesia
Description of the Procedure
You lie on a table with your feet in stirrups, as you would for a gynecologic exam. A speculum is used to open the vagina. Local anesthetic may be used to numb the cervix. An instrument called a tenaculum is used to grasp the cervix. A flexible, thin, suction instrument is passed through the vagina and inserted into the uterus. Using this tool, the doctor suctions out a small sample of endometrial tissue.
After Procedure
The tissue sample is sent to the lab. If cancer is found, the pathologist will determine the type and grade of cancer. Tests also may be done to check for the presence of progesterone (a female hormone) receptor cells. Endometrial cancers with these cells may grow and spread more slowly than cancers without the receptors.
How Long Will It Take?
10-15 minutes
Will It Hurt?
You may feel some cramping, pain, tugging, and pressure during the biopsy. You may be asked to take pain medication before the test.
Possible Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Hole in the uterus created by the biopsy tool (rare)
Average Hospital Stay
None
Postoperative Care
- After the biopsy, you may feel lightheaded and dizzy. Lying down for 5-10 minutes should help.
- You can leave the office shortly after having the biopsy.
- Expect some cramping and bleeding. Use sanitary napkins, not tampons.
- Ask your doctor when you can resume douching and having sexual intercourse.
Outcome
In a few days, your doctor will receive the lab report and make a treatment plan based on the results.
In some cases, another kind of tissue sample is needed. Your doctor may recommend that you have a dilation and curettage. Since an endometrial biopsy removes only a small sample, it may miss cancer that is present.
Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs
- Excessive bleeding (more than your normal menstrual period or saturating a pad within one hour)
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Severe pain
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
RESOURCES:
American Cancer Society
cancer.org">http://www.cancer.org/
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
http://www.sogc.org/index_e.asp/
Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/index.cfm/
References:
Abnormal uterine bleeding. Family Doctor.org. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/reproductive/menstrual/470.html. Updated September 2006. Accessed June 4, 2008.
How is endometrial cancer diagnosed? American Cancer Society website. Available at: cancer.org">http://www.cancer.org. Updated November 2006. Accessed June 4, 2008.
Last reviewed January 2008 by Jeff Andrews, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
Source: EBSCO
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