HYSTEROSCOPY WITH IMPLANTATION CUTS

HYSTEROSCOPY WITH IMPLANTATION CUTS
What is the hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a minor surgical procedure that involves examining the inside of the uterus by passing a thin telescope-like device (hysteroscope) through the cervix. A high definition camera attached to the hysteroscope will project the image of the uterine cavity on a screen, to allow the doctor diagnose and treat conditions such as polyps, fibroids, adhesions and septum. Those may interfere with the embryo implantation and cause infertility or recurrent pregnancy losses. 

Dr Diamantopoulos has vast experience in performing hysteroscopies and laparoscopies. He has been trained for over 8 years in advanced hysterocopic and laparoscopic surgery in prestigious Hospitals of London and Brighton (Kings College University Hospital, Royal Sussex County University Hospital, St Helier University Hospital, Homerton University Hospital). Over this period he performed numerous hysteroscopic and laparoscopic procedures to help women improve their fertility outcomes. Moreover, he has attended an intense 2-year training program in Advanced Gynaecological Endoscopy, conjointly offered by the University of Surrey and the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.  

What is the benefit of implantation cuts?

Various research studies suggest that, in some women, causing a minor “controlled” injury to the inside of the uterus can provoke an inflammatory healing response. As a result increased vascularization and regeneration of the endometrial tissue occurs, increasing the chances of an embryo to implant.

During the hysteroscopy, an overall assessment of the uterine cavity is performed and at the same time small incisions ( mplantation cuts) are made at the fundus of the uterus where implantation normally occurs.

This procedure appears to be particularly beneficial for women with a history of multiple implantation failures following IVF treatment or repeated pregnancy losses.

It is usually performed the month preceding an IVF treatment cycle, however depending on history some women may be advised to try for a natural pregnancy for a 2- or a 3- months period before embarking to an IVF treatment.

Although it is well documented in the literature that ‘injury’ to the endometrium is beneficial in terms of improving the implantation rates, more research is needed to prove the efficacy of this method.