Abrasion/curettage

Abrasion is one of the most common diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in gynaecological practice. It is used to remove an undeveloped pregnancy (missed abortion, “hollow egg”) ; terminate an unwanted pregnancy ; remove a polyp ; diagnose pre-cancerous and cancerous diseases (in the case of a “bad” pap smear/ colposcopy/ biopsy), bleeding or ultrasonographic evidence of a thick uterine lining at menopause. It is most commonly performed under short-term intravenous anaesthesia using a special instrument called a curette, or with a vacuum cannula. The aim is to ‘clear’ the contents of the uterine cavity. The removed material is sent for histopathological examination.

It is necessary to stop food intake at least 6 hours before the manipulation.

After the manipulation, you will remain under observation for a few more hours until you are fully awakened from the anaesthetic. In the absence of complaints, you will be discharged with recommendations for management from your attending physician.