Dilation and Curettage Procedure

A dilation and curettage procedure, also known as a D&C, is a surgical procedure in which the cervix (lower, narrow part of the uterus) is dilated so that the uterine lining (endometrium) can be scraped with a curette instrument in order to remove abnormal tissues. During the dilation and curettage procedure, the patient is placed in supine position of the body with the legs separated, flexed, and supported in raised stirrups. The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina, as during a pelvic exam, in order to see the cervix. Then, the cervix is slowly dilated by inserting a series of thicker and thicker rods into the cervix until it's adequately opened, usually to between 6 and 9 millimeters in diameter. After dilation, a curette is inserted to begin removing tissue. Although the D&C involves no stitches or cuts, the cervix is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. A dilation and curettage can be done as day-surgery or may require an overnight stay in the hospital. It is recommended that before the surgery, the patient take nothing by mouth (food, water, etc.) for at least 6 hours before the scheduled operation. Before surgery or during the previous night, a bath maybe is advisable since it helps lower the bacterial count and lessen the chances of any infection from surgery. The genital area is shaved in order to begin skin preparation. Skin preparation begins at the pubic symphysis and extends downward over the labia. Next, each inner thigh is cleansed. After, the vaginal vault and cervix are cleansed using three spongesticks. Spongesticks must be discarded after wiping the anus. The patient’s bladder is drained with a straight catheter to prevent the bladder from compromising the field. Once the patient has been prepared, a drape sheet is tucked under the buttocks, followed by leggings and a drape sheet over the abdomen. For a dilation and curettage procedure, a scrub tech sets up the instruments on the back table, but he/she is not needed during