Surgical Evacuation of Uterus

What is a surgical evacuation of uterus?

A surgical evacuation of the uterus involves dilation of the cervix (neck of womb) to allow a wash-out of the contents inside your uterus. This is usually a day surgery procedure performed under general anaesthesia.

A surgical evacuation may be recommended if you have:

• A miscarriage
• Incomplete medical abortion
• Incomplete mid-trimester termination of pregnancy

The steps of the procedure are similar to a surgical abortion, and is generally a safe and commonly done procedure. 

Risks of surgical evacuation of uterus include:

Common

• Infection
• Retained pregnancy products: this will require a second procedure to wash out the uterus
• Asherman’s syndrome (scar tissue formation within womb cavity causing problems with periods and infertility)

Uncommon 

• Cervical trauma
• Uterine perforation: this will require a laparoscopy to stop bleeding, check for injuries to surrounding organs e.g. intestines, bladder etc and for additional stitches if needed
• Failed abortion and continuing pregnancy requiring further interventions
• Excessive bleeding requiring blood transfusion 

Rare 

• Anaesthesia complications
• Cervical incompetence: weakening of the neck of the womb leading to problems with subsequent pregnancies
• Death: the risk is approximately less than 3-8 in 100 000