Hysteroscopy: an analysis of 523 patients.

An analysis is presented of the indications for, and findings on, hysteroscopy in 523 patients undergoing gynaecological investigation or treatment. Abnormal uterine bleeding or discharge was the indication for investigation in 202 patients. Based on hysteroscopic observation, dilatation and curettage (D & C) was adjudged unnecessary in 114 (56%) and a subsequent D & C on these patients revealed no histological abnormalities. In the remainder, more abnormalities were observed visually on hysteroscopy than were detected by D & C. The results suggest that D & C should be replaced by hysteroscopy and biopsy as a first-line investigation of abnormal uterine bleeding or discharge.