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Table 2 Types of distension media and their applicability in operative hysteroscopy

From: BSGE/ESGE guideline on management of fluid distension media in operative hysteroscopy

Distension Media [Normal Plasma osmolality (285 mOsm/L)]

Procedure

Electrolyte free

Osmolality

Energy

Comments

Normal saline

285 mOsm/L

Ringer’s lactate

279 mOsm/L

Diagnostic and Operative hysteroscopy

Diagnostic and

Operative hysteroscopy

No

No

Iso-osmolar

Mechanical Bipolar

Laser

Not recommended with monopolar energy as it disperses electric current without having any surgical effect on the tissue

Glycine 1.5 %

200 mOsm/L

Operative Hysteroscopy

Yes

Hypo-osmolar

Monopolar

 

Dextrose 5 %

Operative Hysteroscopy

Yes

Hypo-osmolar

Monopolar

Sorbitol 3 %

165 mOsm/L

Operative Hysteroscopy

Yes

Hypo-osmolar

Monopolar

Mannitol 5 %

274 mOsm/L

Operative Hysteroscopy

Yes

Iso-osmolar

Monopolar

  1. The high viscosity fluid dextran, and the isotonic, electrolyte-free low viscosity fluid mannitol are rarely used in the UK and Europe