Vacuum Curettage (Vacuum Aspiration)
What is vacuum curettage?
Vacuum (suction) curettage is a modern surgical method used to evacuate uterine contents in cases such as termination of unwanted pregnancies or blighted ovum. This procedure utilizes thin, soft-tipped instruments called “Karman Cannulas” and a syringe (vacuum) that creates negative pressure.
What are the advantages of vacuum curettage?
Compared to traditional curettage methods, vacuum aspiration offers many advantages:
- Less Trauma: Since the uterine wall is not scraped, the intrauterine tissue (endometrium) is preserved.
- Low Infection Risk: Because the procedure is performed with a closed system, the risk of infection is extremely low.
- Rapid Recovery: The procedure usually takes 5-10 minutes, and the patient can return to their social life on the same day.
- Infertility Risk: The risk of creating intrauterine adhesions (Asherman’s Syndrome) is negligible compared to older methods.
How does the procedure work?
- Preliminary Examination and Ultrasound: The week of pregnancy and its placement (checking for ectopic pregnancy) are clarified.
- Anesthesia: According to the patient’s preference, local anesthesia or a light sleep state called “sedation” is applied.
- Vacuum Evacuation: Entering through the cervix with thin cannulas, the pregnancy material is cleared with the help of a vacuum.
- Control: At the end of the procedure, it is confirmed by ultrasound that the inside of the uterus is completely cleared.
Who is it suitable for?
- Individuals with unwanted pregnancies.
- Those experiencing a blighted ovum or anembryonic pregnancy.
- Patients with retained products of conception after a miscarriage.
Note: It is generally the gold standard for procedures up to the 10th week of pregnancy.
Post-Procedure Considerations
- Antibiotics and painkillers prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly.
- Pools, the sea, Turkish baths, and sexual intercourse should be avoided for the first 2 weeks after the procedure.
- Bleeding in the form of light spotting is considered normal; however, a physician must be consulted in case of excessive bleeding or high fever.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vacuum Curettage (Vacuum Aspiration)
1- Is it possible to get pregnant again after vacuum curettage?
Yes. Since the vacuum method does not damage the uterine tissue, it does not negatively affect the chances of future pregnancies.
2- Is much pain felt during the procedure?
In procedures performed under sedation (while asleep), the patient feels nothing. Under local anesthesia, only a slight pressure similar to menstrual cramps may be felt.
3- Is the confidentiality of vacuum curettage ensured?
In accordance with patient rights and medical ethics, the procedures performed and patient information are kept strictly confidential; they are not shared with third parties.