Vacuum aspiration

Vacuum Aspiration

Diagram of vacuum aspiration procedure

Vacuum aspiration, also known as suction aspiration or suction curettage, is a procedure used to remove the contents of the uterus through the use of a vacuum. It is commonly used for induced abortion, miscarriage management, and endometrial biopsy.

Procedure

Vacuum aspiration can be performed using either a manual or an electric vacuum source. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is positioned in a lithotomy position.
2. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
3. Local anesthesia may be administered to the cervix.
4. The cervix is dilated using graduated dilators.
5. A cannula is inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
6. The vacuum source is activated, and the uterine contents are aspirated through the cannula.

Manual Vacuum Aspiration

Manual vacuum aspirator

Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) uses a hand-held syringe to create the vacuum. It is a portable and cost-effective method, often used in settings with limited resources. MVA is suitable for early pregnancy terminations and uterine evacuations.

Electric Vacuum Aspiration

Electric vacuum aspiration uses an electric pump to generate the vacuum. This method is typically used in hospital settings and can be more efficient for larger volumes of uterine contents.

Indications

Vacuum aspiration is indicated for:

• First trimester abortion
• Second trimester abortion (with additional cervical preparation)
• Management of incomplete abortion
• Treatment of molar pregnancy
• Endometrial sampling for histopathology

Complications

While vacuum aspiration is generally safe, potential complications include:

• Infection
• Hemorrhage
• Uterine perforation
• Cervical injury
• Retained products of conception

Advantages

Vacuum aspiration offers several advantages over other methods of uterine evacuation:

• Shorter procedure time
• Reduced risk of uterine perforation compared to sharp curettage
• Lower risk of infection
• Minimal anesthesia requirements

Related Pages

• Dilation and curettage
• Medical abortion
• Miscarriage
• Reproductive health