The role of hysteroscopy in the current management of the cervical polyps

The current management of patients with cervical polyps may include different approaches and protocols, such as a simply removal of the polyp in most cases at an office setting, surgical dilatation and curettage, electrosurgical excision or hysteroscopic polypectomy. Exploration of the cervical canal and uterine cavity by hysteroscopy determines the exact origin of the polyp pedicle (cervical or endometrial) and if there is any concurrent endometrial pathology. The majority of cervical polyps are asymptomatic, and their incidence is increasing with age. Symptomatic cervical polyps may cause intermenstrual bleeding, postcoital bleeding, heavy menses, postmenopausal bleeding and vaginal discharge. Cervical polyps may be detected by routine gynaecological examination, colposcopy, filling defects on hysterosalpingogram, gynaecological ultrasound (abdominal, transvaginal or sonohysterography) or endometrial biopsy. The location, number, and size of cervical polyps are best determined with diagnostic hysteroscopy. In the past, simple twisting or avulsion of the polyp or blind curettage was the standard surgical treatment of choice. However, this treatment often leaves residual polyp fragments in the cervical canal. Difficulty may also occur in differentiating endocervical from endometrial lesions. In addition, up to 25% of patients who have cervical polyp, have also a coexisting endometrial polyp, so there is a need for evaluation of the endometrial cavity. It is important to note the usefulness of hysteroscopy to manage a patient with a cervical polyp, especially when she presents abnormal uterine bleeding, in order to make an accurate diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment.