Prospective Assessment of Direction of Cervical Canal in Routine Hysteroscopy

Abstract

Introduction: If the direction of the cervical canal is known, the commonly performed procedures as sono salpingography, embryo transfer, IUD insertion, cervical dilation etc. will be easier. The reported resultant trauma to the cervical canal and uterus during these procedures also can be avoided. As we know the cervical canal is tortuous in majority of cases, but the exact course is not yet reported or known. Objective: The objective of the present study was to try to identify the various directions of cervical canal while performing routine hysteroscopic surgeries. Methods: Four-point cervical canal direction was assessed while performing routine hysteroscopic procedures using 5fr Bettocchi operative assembly with 2.9 mm 12-degree telescope (Karl-Storz). The study group was patients with infertility who required hysteroscopy and laparoscopic evaluation as per infertility treatment protocol or else required hysteroscopy for AUB. The study was carried out at tertiary care referral hospital for minimal access surgeries for a period was of 2 yr. 9 months year from May 2017 to Feb 2020. Results: Down-right or left-up-straight combination of movement (DRUS, DLUS) was the most common cervical direction found in 72 % patients. If DURS (down-up-right-straight) movement is added these 3 movements together are seen in about 82% of patients. No cervical dilation is required when 5 fr hysteroscopic assembly was used in study group. No operative complications were found. Conclusion: DRUS and DLUS (down-right or left-up and straight) combination of movements are most frequent direction of cervical canal observed in 72% of patients.