Hysteroscopic Polypectomy and Myomectomy  

Uterine polyps and certain types of uterine fibroids can be treated with hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy. A hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes growths within a woman’s uterine cavity through the vagina. The procedure is often performed for women who are struggling with fertility, as it is relatively fast way to address uterine growths that could affect a women’s ability to get pregnant. 

Conditions Treated With Hysteroscopic Polypectomy and Myomectomy 

A hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy can treat both uterine polyps and uterine fibroids, respectively.  

• Uterine polyps – Polyps can grow in the endometrium, or the lining inside the uterus. For this reason they are also called endometrial polyps. They grow on a thin stalk or a broad base and protrude into the uterus. They can range in size from very small to about the size of a golf ball or larger.  
• Uterine fibroids – Also known as leiomyomas, fibroids can be very small or as large as a grapefruit. Fibroids develop in several areas of the uterus, including within the muscular uterine wall and outside the uterus. However, only fibroids that grow and extend inside the uterine space (submucosal and intracavitary) can be treated with hysteroscopic myomectomy.  

These non-cancerous growths can cause many symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure, and can even affect fertility.  

Procedure Details 

A patient undergoing a hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy procedure requires anesthesia. A sedative may be administered as well. The surgical team performing the procedure will typically follow these steps: 

• The surgeon will dilate, or widen, the cervix, which is the donut-shaped organ located at the top of the vagina and the bottom of the uterus. 
• A hysteroscopic resectoscope (a long, thin scope with a light and surgical instruments) is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The image of inside the uterus is projected onto a monitor.  
• The surgeon uses the resectoscope’s electrosurgical wire loop to wrap around and remove any polyps or fibroids present.  

What to Expect  

Because minimally invasive hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy is performed through a woman’s vagina, no incision is required. This allows for a relatively fast recovery, and most patients leave the hospital or outpatient clinic within 30 minutes to two hours following surgery.  

Light vaginal bleeding or spotting may occur for a few days or up to six weeks after the procedure, but most women are able to resume their normal daily activities within a couple days.  

Effectiveness of Hysteroscopic Polypectomy and Myomectomy 

For certain candidates, hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy is a highly effective procedure to reduce or eliminate the symptoms caused by uterine polyps and fibroids. In addition, the surgery is an effective fertility-sparing option compared to hysterectomy.  

At Tampa General Hospital, expert gynecologists perform all type of surgeries, including hysteroscopic polypectomy and myomectomy. With a multidisciplinary approach to care, we ensure that the unique needs and circumstances of each woman are considered before any treatment plans for uterine polyps and uterine fibroids are formulated.