Facts, Views & Vision
in ObGyn

Abstract

Nowadays many hysteroscopic procedures can be done in the outpatient or office setting. With the introduction of tissue removal systems with a smaller diameter than a resectoscope, operative hysteroscopy is well tolerated and preferred by patients in the office setting. These procedures can be done with normal saline with seemingly limited risk of complications. However, as more operative hysteroscopic procedures are done outside the OR facility with limited surveillance of the patient, one should always be aware of the risks. Fortunately, potential life-threatening complications especially those related to fluid overload are hardly being reported anymore. However, if unnoticed, these complications can still occur.

This review gives an overview of the potential (life-threatening) risks and how, based on guidelines, fluid deficit should be monitored during operative hysteroscopic surgery. The use of an automated fluid management system makes monitoring easier and should be considered a standard of care in operative hysteroscopy in both in- and outpatient setting.