Hysteroscopic management of endometrial polyps and submucous leiomyomas in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system.

INTRODUCTION

This study was designed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of hysteroscopy in the management of symptoms related to endometrial polyps and submucous leiomyomas in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-three LNG-IUS users presenting with endometrial polyps and/or submucous leiomyomas and irregular uterine bleeding were recruited for hysteroscopic examination and surgery. Intrauterine pathology was investigated and treated by hysteroscopic resection with the LNG-IUS , and the effect of the procedure on symptoms was evaluated after three to six months.

RESULTS

Intrauterine pathology was successfully resected by hysteroscopy in 23 (100.0%) out of 23 cases. Following hysteroscopy, 18 (78.3%) women reported amenorrhea, one (4.3%) regular spotting, three (13.0%) irregular spotting and one (4.3%) patient resumed normal menstrual cycle. We conclude that 19 (82.6%) patients were postoperatively asymptomatic. All procedures were uncomplicated and 4 (17.4%) were carried out without general anesthesia as office procedures.

CONCLUSION

Endometrial polyps and submucous leiomyomas can develop in LNG-IUS users, and this can cause irregular uterine bleeding. Hysteroscopic resection of these pathologies is a feasible method in the clinical management of symptoms.