Endometrial Biopsy and Curettage

What Is an Endometrial Biopsy?
An endometrial biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure performed to collect a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes.
At Saga Clinic in Tirana, Dr. Eser Agar performs this procedure using two different methods — each designed for specific indications:
1. Pipelle Endometrial Biopsy (Office-based, Diagnostic)
2. Therapeutic Curettage (D&C – Performed Under General Anesthesia)
1. Pipelle Endometrial Biopsy – Diagnostic Evaluation
The pipelle biopsy is an office-based procedure performed without anesthesia.
It is primarily used for diagnostic purposes to analyze the endometrium in cases of abnormal bleeding, hormonal imbalance, or infertility evaluation.
How It Is Performed
- The patient lies in a gynecological position.
- A thin, flexible suction cannula (pipelle) is gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
- A small sample of tissue is aspirated.
- The sample is sent for histopathologic examination.
The procedure takes 5–10 minutes, is well tolerated, and does not require anesthesia.
Patients may experience mild cramping, but they can resume daily activities immediately.
Clinical Use
- Investigation of abnormal uterine bleeding
- Infertility and implantation assessment, endometrial receptivity assesment
- Endometrial hyperplasia or hormonal imbalance evaluation
- Monitoring response to hormone therapy
This technique is purely diagnostic — it provides microscopic information but does not remove polyps or large lesions.
2. Therapeutic Curettage (D&C) – Diagnostic and Treatment in One Procedure
In some cases, a more extensive procedure called Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is recommended.
This is performed under sedation anesthesia and allows both diagnosis and treatment in the same session.
How It Is Performed
- Conducted in a sterile operating room under short sedation anesthesia.
- The cervix is dilated gently.
- The uterine lining is scraped using a vacuum injector, removing a larger tissue sample.
- Collected tissue is sent to the pathology lab for analysis.
When It Is Indicated
- Heavy or irregular bleeding not responding to medical therapy
- Thickened endometrium or suspected endometrial hyperplasia
- Removal of endometrial polyps or small intrauterine lesions
- Postmenopausal bleeding evaluation
- When pipelle biopsy results are insufficient or inconclusive
This procedure serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes — for instance, removing a polyp can both stop the bleeding and provide tissue for analysis.
After the Procedure
- Light cramping or bleeding may occur for 2–3 days.
- Avoid sexual intercourse, tampon use, or vaginal medications for at least one week.
- Rest is advised for the first 24 hours after anesthesia.
- Pathology results are typically available in 5–7 days.
Understanding the Results
The pathologic examination of the endometrium determines:
- Normal cyclical patterns (proliferative or secretory phase)
- Atrophic endometrium (postmenopausal thinning)
- Hyperplasia or precancerous changes
- Endometritis (infection)
- Endometrial polyp or benign tissue fragments
- Neoplastic or malignant cells (rare)
Comparison: Pipelle vs. Therapeutic Curettage
| Feature | Pipelle Biopsy | Therapeutic Curettage (D&C) |
| Setting | Clinic (office procedure) | Operating room (under anesthesia) |
| Purpose | Diagnostic only | Diagnostic + Therapeutic |
| Anesthesia | Not required | Sedation anesthesia |
| Sample Size | Small tissue sample | Full endometrial removal |
| Treatment Effect | None | May stop bleeding or remove lesions |
| Recovery | Immediate return to activities | Rest 24 hours post-procedure |
The Saga Clinic Approach
At Saga Clinic, both diagnostic and therapeutic endometrial procedures are performed in line with international guidelines (ACOG, ESHRE).
Dr. Eser Agar personally evaluates each patient’s condition, choosing the most appropriate method based on symptoms, ultrasound findings, and fertility goals.
Core principles:
- Minimal discomfort and maximum diagnostic accuracy
- Fertility-preserving approach whenever possible
- Full explanation before and after the procedure
- Personalized treatment and follow-up plan
Advantages for Patients
- Comprehensive diagnosis of endometrial disorders
- Early detection of hyperplasia or malignancy
- One-session treatment for bleeding or polyps
- Safe, sterile, and evidence-based procedures
- Personal follow-up and clear result interpretation
Appointments and Contact
To schedule an Endometrial Biopsy or Therapeutic Curettage, contact Saga Clinic Tirana via online booking or WhatsApp.
Dr. Eser Agar and his medical team provide expert counseling, ensuring you understand both diagnostic and treatment options for your uterine health.
For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.
📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.
💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 362 0838
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.