Current status of hysteroscopy in gynecologic practice.

During the past century hysteroscopy has developed into a highly sophisticated and effective technique with increasing applicability. Hysteroscopic instruments have been refined with fiberoptics, allowing light to be introduced into the uterine cavity with high intensity but without danger of thermal injury. Safe methods for uterine distention provide an undistorted panoramic view of the uterine cavity. As a diagnostic technique, hysteroscopy affords accuracy in detecting intrauterine conditions which may not be revealed by traditional methods of exploration. As an operative technique, hysteroscopy increases the precision of surgery and minimizes trauma to the endometrial lining, and may, on some occasions, preclude major surgical intervention. In addition, hysterscopy is potentially useful for female sterilization and offers promise as an investigative tool for studies of the intratubal milieu.