Endoscopy in Gynaecology

Question 1

What is endoscopy in gynaecology?

Answer 1

The visualisation of a body cavity using an optical instrument.

Question 2

Who first used laparoscopy in humans?

Answer 2

Jacobeus in 1910.

Question 3

What is the main advantage of fibre-optics introduced in 1964?

Answer 3

Enhanced illumination and better visualisation with minimal access.

Question 4

List three advantages of endoscopic surgery.

Answer 4

Better cosmesis, quicker recovery, fewer adhesions, less pain.

Question 5

Name three basic requirements for endoscopic surgery.

Answer 5

Telescope, light source/camera, distension medium, skilled team.

Question 6

What are the main types of endoscopy in gynaecology?

Answer 6

Laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, cystoscopy, colposcopy, culdoscopy.

Question 7

What is the purpose of diagnostic laparoscopy?

Answer 7

To evaluate infertility, pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, PID.

Question 8

List four operative indications for laparoscopy.

Answer 8

Ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, adhesiolysis.

Question 9

Name two procedures in assisted conception requiring laparoscopy.

Answer 9

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation), GIFT (Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer).

Question 10

What is the purpose of a Veress needle?

Answer 10

Used to introduce CO₂ and create pneumoperitoneum.

Question 11

What is pneumoperitoneum and how is it achieved?

Answer 11

Insufflation of CO₂ into the peritoneal cavity to expand space.

Question 12

What is the standard insufflation pressure in laparoscopy?

Answer 12

18–25 mmHg.

Question 13

What position is the patient placed in for laparoscopy?

Answer 13

Lithotomy position with slight Trendelenburg (head-down tilt).

Question 14

What are two common energy sources used in laparoscopy?

Answer 14

Diathermy and LASER.

Question 15

Name three complications of laparoscopy.

Answer 15

Injury to bowel, bleeding, gas embolism, DVT, infection.

Question 16

What is a major disadvantage of laparoscopy?

Answer 16

Blind initial steps can risk injury; cost of setup is high.

Question 17

List three contraindications to laparoscopy.

Answer 17

Large pelvic mass, advanced pregnancy, generalised peritonitis.

Question 18

What is hysteroscopy?

Answer 18

Endoscopic examination of the uterine cavity.

Question 19

What are the types of hysteroscopes?

Answer 19

Rigid or flexible, with or without operating channel.

Question 20

What are common diagnostic indications for hysteroscopy?

Answer 20

Menorrhagia, intermenstrual bleeding, polyps, endometrial cancer.

Question 21

Name three operative hysteroscopic procedures.

Answer 21

Polypectomy, myomectomy, adhesiolysis.

Question 22

What is Asherman’s syndrome and how is it managed endoscopically?

Answer 22

Intrauterine adhesions; treated via hysteroscopic adhesiolysis.

Question 23

List two distension media used in hysteroscopy.

Answer 23

Fluid (saline) or gas (CO₂).

Question 24

What are possible complications of hysteroscopy?

Answer 24

Perforation, bleeding, fluid overload, gas embolism, infection.

Question 25

Name two contraindications to hysteroscopy.

Answer 25

Pregnancy, cervical cancer, pelvic infection, heavy bleeding.

Question 26

What is the advantage of hysteroscopy over D&C?

Answer 26

Direct visualisation of the uterine cavity without blind scraping.

Question 27

What makes hysteroscopy suitable for outpatient use?

Answer 27

No incisions, quick recovery, minimal hospital stay.

Question 28

What is a key disadvantage of endoscopic surgery generally?

Answer 28

High cost and need for specialist training.

Question 29

What must be in place to safely perform endoscopic gynaecologic procedures?

Answer 29

Adequate training, teamwork, proper equipment and indication.