Health encyclopaedia

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Dilatation and curettage (D&C)

Dilatation and curettage (D&C) is a common gynaecological operation, usually performed under general anaesthetic.

During D&C, the lining (endometrium) of the womb (uterus) is scraped out. It can then be examined and used to diagnose certain conditions. In the past it has been used to treat conditions such as menorrhagia (heavy periods), although this is less common now.

Other procedures such as endometrial pipelle biopsy (removal of tissue using a small plastic tube) are now commonly used instead of D&C, or beforehand to determine whether D&C is necessary.

• Why is it necessary?
• How is it performed?
• Complications
• Recovery
• References

• DandruffDeafblindnessDecongestant drugsDeep vein thrombosisDehydrationDementiaDental abscessDental care for babies and childrenDental decayDepressionDEXA scanDiabetesDiabetes insipidusDiabetic retinopathyDialysisDiaphragms and capsDiarrhoeaDietDifferential testDilatation and curettage (D&C)DiphtheriaDiverticular problemsDouble visionDown's syndromeDrug misuseDry eye syndromeDupuytren's contractureDysenteryDyslexiaDysphagiaDyspraxia

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