A systematic review of the effect of the distension medium on pain during outpatient hysteroscopy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of distension medium on pain during outpatient hysteroscopy.


METHODS
Systematic review and meta-analysis.


METHODS
Outpatient hysteroscopy clinics.


METHODS
Women undergoing outpatient hysteroscopic examination.


METHODS
Use of normal saline versus carbon dioxide as distension medium for outpatient hysteroscopy.


METHODS
Pain scores.


RESULTS
There was no statistically significant difference in pain scores when carbon dioxide or normal saline were used as the distension medium for outpatient hysteroscopy (standardized mean differences=-0.05; 95% CI, -0.17 to 0.07; I2=92%).


CONCLUSIONS
Carbon dioxide and normal saline are both suitable distending media for outpatient hysteroscopy as the procedural pain is comparable and the views obtained are satisfactory. However, normal saline does confer advantages that may make it more suitable for clinical use.
Cooper
Natalie A M
NA
Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Obstetrics-Gynaecology and Clinical Epidemiology, Birmingham Women's Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Smith
Paul
P
Khan
Khalid S
KS
Clark
T Justin
TJ
D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D005260:Female; D005831:Genital Diseases, Female / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D015907:Hysteroscopy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010045:Outpatients; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology*; D012965:Sodium Chloride
D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D012965:Sodium Chloride