Dilation and Curettage
(D&C)

Disease Prevention in Women Slideshow

Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

• What is dilation and curettage?
• Why is a D&C done?
• What are reasons not to perform a D&C?
• Pre-op: What happens before surgery?
• What type of anesthesia is used for a D&C?
• How is a D&C performed?
• What are possible complications of a D&C?
• What happens after a D&C?
• Why is the D&C procedure becoming less common?

What is dilation and curettage (D&C)?

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure in which the cervix of the uterus is expanded (dilated) so that the uterine lining (endometrium) can be removed with a spoon-shaped instrument called a curet or curette. The procedure is performed for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, this surgery is done in order to help determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding. It can also be done to help determine the degree of abnormality of the endometrium in cases of cancer or pre-cancerous cells that are detected by an in-office biopsy. D&C is also sometimes necessary to remove tissue after a miscarriage.

Why is a D&C done?

In general, a D&C is used to help determine the health of the uterine lining or to remove abnormal tissue. Occasionally, the procedure can correct some of the problems in the uterus such as polyps, scar tissue, or tissue overgrowth.

What are reasons not to perform a D&C?

There are very few contraindications to D&C. Generally if a patient is too ill to undergo surgery, then she should probably not have this procedure. Furthermore, if the patient is unable to move her legs apart, such as with severe arthritis in the hips, the surgeon may not be able to perform the procedure since it requires enough movement of the legs to accommodate a speculum and the surgeon. If the patient is pregnant or thinks that she could be pregnant, she should not have the operation unless the D&C is for the purpose of an abortion.

Pre-op: What happens before surgery?

Before a D&C, the same general recommendations as for other outpatient procedures apply. It is recommended that the patient take nothing by mouth (food, water, etc.) for at least 7 hours before the scheduled operation. Often, the doctor will see the patient the day before surgery to discuss the procedure and the potential complications in greater detail.

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