transcervical

Transcervical is a medical term describing procedures, access routes, or interventions that pass through the cervix to reach the uterus. The cervix is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina. In clinical contexts, transcervical approaches are often used to access the uterine cavity or the tubal ostia with visualization and instruments, typically under hysteroscopic guidance.

The term is widely used in obstetrics and gynecology. Common examples include hysteroscopy, where a scope is inserted through the cervix to inspect the uterine cavity; transcervical resection or removal of intrauterine pathology such as polyps or submucosal fibroids; and transcervical sterilization, in which occlusion devices or other means are delivered through the cervix to block the fallopian tubes. Transcervical techniques are also employed for certain diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, such as chorionic villus sampling via a transcervical approach or other endometrial sampling methods.

Advantages of transcervical methods typically include avoiding abdominal surgery, reduced recovery times, and direct access to intracavitary structures. Limitations or risks can include cervical trauma, infection, bleeding, or uterine perforation, and suitability depends on patient anatomy, pregnancy status, and the specific procedure. Successful transcervical interventions rely on appropriate equipment (such as hysteroscopes and specialized instruments) and skilled operators.

See also: hysteroscopy, endometrial sampling, chorionic villus sampling, submucosal fibroids, uterine surgery.