Enhancing precision in hysteroscopic surgery: The role of intraoperative ultrasound

Abstract

Hysteroscopy stands as the gold-standard approach for managing intrauterine pathology. However, in complex clinical cases, hysteroscopic evaluation alone may prove insufficient for the safest and successful patient management. Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) has emerged as a valuable adjunct to hysteroscopic surgery, offering real-time visualization of endometrial cavity, uterine walls and instruments within the uterine cavity, enabling precise delineation of anatomical structures, and helping to assess the extent of pathology during intricate interventions. This review aims to comprehensively assess the applications, efficacy and utility of IOUS in hysteroscopic surgery. Available evidence indicates that in hysteroscopic myomectomy, IOUS significantly reduces the risk of uterine perforation, particularly in submucosal FIGO 2 myomas, and enhances the likelihood of a single-step procedure. During hysteroscopic metroplasty, ultrasound guidance decreases the chance of incomplete uterine septum resection. In the hysteroscopic management of severe Asherman syndrome, IOUS reduces the risk of uterine perforation or false passage. For cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP), ultrasound is crucial in defining the most appropriate surgical approach and is effective in guiding the hysteroscopic treatment of endogenic CSP. The use of IOUS in hysteroscopy proves valuable in complex cases where the risk of uterine perforation or incomplete procedure is increased.