Risks and Complications

The procedure is done with the use of operative hysteroscope-resectoscope and utilises fluid medium for distention of the uterine 
cavity. This fluid sometimes gets absorbed into the body causing fluid overload.

Procedure

Steps

Under General anaesthesia, a hysteroscope is inserted into the uterine cavity via the birth passage and the lining of the uterus is removed using electrosurgery.

Before the Day of the Surgery

Before you're scheduled for the surgery, you'll need an appointment with the doctor. You'll also need to see the anesthesiologist who'll answer your questions about anesthesia. You'll need to have a few routine lab tests done before you see the anesthesiologist.These tests tell us if you are well enough to undergo the surgery.

Follow the instructions provided by your doctor. You are advised to take a light meal on the night before surgery. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight and the morning before the procedure. Do not even drink coffee, tea, or water.

On the Day of the Surgery

• You are advised to report to the hospital on the morning of the surgery along with your reports. The nurses prepares you for the procedure and give you some medication with a sip of water. This medication prevents acidity.
• The anaesthesiologist or nurse anaesthetist may ask questions about the patient's health, discuss the procedure and explain what to expect from the anaesthesia. 
• Before the surgery, an intravenous line, which consists of a small flexible plastic tube, may be inserted into a vein in the patient's arm or hand. It is used to give medications and fluids during the operation. Sometimes intravenous medication is administered before surgery to help the patient relax.

What to Expect after the Surgery?
The effects of general anaesthesia make most people feel groggy at first, but they quickly become more alert. Some people experience nausea for a short time after awakening from a general anesthesia. In the recovery room, the individual first rests in bed, then gradually sits up, stands, and walks as balance and mobility are regained. 6 -8 hours after the procedure, you are allowed liquids and are usually fit to be sent home with in 12 - 24 hours. There are no cuts and no stiches for this surgery.

After endometrial ablation, you usually have bleeding followed by discharge which may last upto 10 - 14 days after the procedure.

What Problems Can Occur After Surgery?
Complications after Hysteroscopic surgery are rare. Most people recover quickly and resume their normal activities without problems. However, the risk of infection or other problems exists as with any kind of surgery.

• If a breathing tube was used for the surgery, patients may have a mild sore throat. 
• There may be headache or heaviness which may last upto a couple of days.    

Recovery in Hospital

You may stay in the hospital 12 to 24 hours to recover from the surgery. You are started on liquid diet 6 - 8 hours after surgery and gradually shifted to soft then full diet.

Recovery at Home

You may feel weak and drained as after a flu for a few days but are allowed all activity that your body feels comfortable about.

What Self-Care Is Necessary After Returning Home? 
The exact kind of care needed depends on the individual's age and general health, and other factors. In general, people recovering from Hysteroscopic surgery are very comfortable performing all their routine within a day or two and resume work within few days. There is no restriction regarding climbing stairs, or strenous activity as there are no stiches / cuts involved. You are allowed  full diet, however due to the antibiotics you may not have a good appetite which will return once your medication stops.

How Long Will It Take For Full Recovery?
Recovery time depends on the kind of procedure, the patient's age, and health before the procedure. And is usually within a week.

When can I go back to work?
Depending on the procedure most people feel well enough to return to work or normal daily activities three to five days after hysteroscopy, although some people may need a week or more of rest.

Looking towards the future.

New developments in minimally invasive surgery should result in operations that are even easier on the patient and the treatment of a wider range of diseases. In the future, minimally invasive surgery will:

• Be done for more and more diseases. Researchers are developing minimally invasive methods for many types of surgery that currently require larger "open" incisions.