Pipeline biopsy

Endometrial biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that involves taking a sample of the endometrial tissue (the lining of the uterus) for laboratory analysis. In the past, this was performed by scraping with a curette, a method that is quite traumatic and painful and therefore requires general anesthesia.

Pipelle biopsy is a minimally invasive method that allows for the collection of an endometrial sample quickly, safely, and painlessly. The material is collected using a silicone probe with a vacuum system. The probe is only 3 mm in diameter, so it is inserted through the vagina without the need for cervical dilation. The patient experiences no pain and does not require anesthesia. The procedure is carried out in a gynecological office, takes just a few minutes, and allows the patient to leave the clinic immediately afterward.

The sample obtained via pipelle biopsy is sent to the laboratory for analysis. The results allow for an accurate diagnosis and selection of the most effective treatment.

At Oxford Medical, pipelle biopsy is performed by highly qualified gynecologists with many years of experience. We use high-quality materials and expert-class equipment, ensuring a gentle procedure and high accuracy of test results.

Pipelle biopsy is prescribed to diagnose various gynecological diseases, as well as to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

The main indications include:

• Suspicion of endometrial hyperplasia or cancer;

• Detection of polyps and other neoplasms;

• Endometriosis;

• Chronic endometritis;

• Abnormal uterine bleeding, including during menopause;

• Infertility and preparation for IVF;

• Evaluation of therapy effectiveness.

The procedure is minimally invasive and performed in a regular gynecological office. It takes just a few minutes and does not require anesthesia.

The patient lies on a gynecological chair. The doctor inserts a speculum, then introduces a sterile pipelle (a thin flexible tube, 3 mm in diameter) through the cervix into the uterine cavity. The doctor then pulls out the plunger of the pipelle, creating negative pressure and enabling aspiration (suction) of the endometrial tissue sample. After that, the pipelle is removed, and the collected sample is placed in a special container and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Laboratory testing of the biopsy sample takes up to 10–14 days. Afterward, the patient is scheduled for a follow-up appointment with a gynecologist.

The tests can identify inflammatory processes, atypical cells, hyperplastic, atrophic, or fibrous changes in the endometrium.

Providing patients with high-quality medical care using advanced diagnostic and treatment methods is the main priority of the Oxford Medical team. Our clinic employs only experienced and highly qualified doctors, and features new expert-level equipment.

The advantages of pipelle biopsy at Oxford Medical include:

• The procedure is performed by experienced obstetrician-gynecologists;

• The use of high-quality materials ensures a painless and safe procedure;

• The highest accuracy of laboratory test results;

• The ability to undergo additional diagnostics and treatment for a wide range of diseases at the same clinic;

• Comfortable conditions and a loyalty program for regular patients.

A few days before the pipelle biopsy, women are advised to avoid sexual intercourse, not to use tampons, and to refrain from douching. Additionally, if the patient has a low pain threshold, the doctor may recommend taking a pain reliever one hour before the procedure.

Pipelle biopsy is performed on different days of the menstrual cycle, depending on the goal of the examination. In particular, endometrial sampling may be done:

• In the early days of the cycle when endometrial hyperplasia is suspected;

• In the second phase if IVF is planned;

• At the end of the cycle in cases of hormonal disorders;

• Regardless of the cycle in postmenopausal women with uterine bleeding or suspected cancer.

Since biopsy is an additional diagnostic method, the patient may first be prescribed pelvic ultrasound, smear and scraping tests for infections, a Pap test, colposcopy, and other examinations if indicated.

Since pipelle biopsy is a non-traumatic procedure, the patient can leave the clinic immediately after it is completed.

For a few days, there may be cramping pain in the lower abdomen and light spotting. Until these symptoms subside, it is recommended not to use tampons and to abstain from sexual intercourse.

In case of severe pain, bleeding, fever, or other complaints, it is necessary to contact a doctor.

You can check the price of a pipelle biopsy here. Keep in mind that the procedure is prescribed for histological, cytological, or other types of analysis of the endometrial sample. Therefore, the final cost of the examination may vary. A gynecologist will give more precise information during the initial consultation. Book an appointment at a time convenient for you — call us or leave a request on the website.