What is suction curettage?

Suction curettage, also known as vacuum aspiration, is a surgical procedure utilized to remove tissue or material from the uterus. It involves the insertion of a slim, hollow tube (cannula) through the cervix, the neck of the uterus, into the uterine cavity. A device attached to the tube creates negative pressure or suction, gently drawing out the contents inside the uterus.

Suction curettage has various medical applications, commonly employed during first-trimester abortions, treatment of incomplete miscarriages, removal of retained products of conception, as well as collection of endometrial tissue for diagnostic purposes through a procedure called an endometrial biopsy.

Advantages of using suction curettage include minimal risk of infection, low complication rates, quick recovery time, and preservation of reproductive capacity as it typically doesn't damage the uterine lining.