Endometrial Aspiration and Endocervical Curettage (EA-ECC)

Introduction

Endometrial aspiration and endocervical curettage (EA-ECC) are essential procedures in obstetrics and gynecology used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. These techniques help in evaluating abnormal uterine bleeding, diagnosing endometrial pathologies, and detecting malignancies.

Procedure Techniques

Instruments Required

• Aspiration catheter or pipelle device
• Curette for endocervical sampling
• Speculum for cervical access
• Tenaculum for cervical stabilization
• Local anesthetic (if needed)

Methodology

The EA-ECC procedure involves the careful collection of tissue samples from the endometrium and endocervix. After preparing the patient and ensuring proper positioning, the clinician inserts an aspiration catheter or pipelle into the uterine cavity to obtain an endometrial sample. This is followed by gentle curettage of the endocervical canal using a curette. The samples are then preserved for histopathological analysis.

Clinical Indications

EA-ECC is commonly performed in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, suspected endometrial hyperplasia, and cervical pathology assessment.

Conclusion

This procedure is a minimally invasive, cost-effective, and reliable method for diagnosing uterine and cervical abnormalities. Proper technique and patient management contribute to optimal diagnostic accuracy.