Ultrasonic dilatation of the uterine cervix: morphologic evaluation of a new device in the sow.

The present study demonstrates that low-power ultrasonic activation of Hegar dilators reduces the mechanical force required for dilatation of the cervix. The acute and possible late effects of an ultrasonic dilator on the cervical mucosa in the sow were evaluated by histologic study and compared to the effects of similar mechanical dilatation. In both groups early effects were mild to moderate edema and vascular congestion of the cervical mucosa. The immediate changes were comparatively more pronounced after ultrasonic dilatation. No significant pathologic differences were noted five weeks after ultrasonic dilatation of the endocervical canal. Further study may prove the device useful for dilatation of the stenosed cervix and urethra in women.