A Closer Look at the Instruments Used by an OBGYN
Like other medical professionals, obstetricians and gynecologists or OB-GYNs use instruments during procedures to diagnose and treat their patients. These instruments have been used since the ancient times and improved by modern science to be less invasive and more effective. Here are some of the common instruments, some of which most women are familiar with.
OB-GYNs use hysteroscopes to see into a patient’s uterus during diagnosis and while doing a hysterectomy. A hysteroscope is a telescope attached to a light source. Its size can range from three to ten millimeters long. Most hysteroscopes consist of three parts, namely: eyepiece, barrel, and objective lens. The uterus is usually displayed on an external monitor.
Ultrasound machines are more commonly used than hysteroscopes. This machine is used to monitor fetal development and to check women’s reproductive systems for problems. An ultrasound machine helps in detecting cervical cysts, internal bleeding, and other abnormalities. There are four major types of ultrasound: transvaginal scans, doppler ultrasound, 3D ultrasound, and 4D ultrasound.
Also known as diopter, the speculum is an instrument used to examine the cervix. Like the hysteroscope, the speculum is inserted into the vagina during diagnosis and surgery. Old specula were made of metal and had to be sterilized after use, while modern ones are made of plastic and are mostly disposable. A typical speculum used by any Fort Bend OB GYN consists of two blades which are closed. Once the speculum is inserted into the vagina, the blades are opened and the doctor examines the mucus on the blades.
Forceps which work and look like tongs serve various purposes in Fort Bend County obstetrics. These are commonly used for grabbing, positioning, and removing something from the reproductive system. Forceps are most often used during childbirth to grasp the fetal head as it comes out. Because most forceps are made of metal, OB-GYNs should be careful to prevent damage to the baby’s head.
When it comes to picking out a gynecologist Houston based mothers-to-be prefer to put themselves in the hands of doctors who aren’t too quick about slicing them open. Many express the preference for using a ventouse, a vacuum device used as an alternative to having a caesarean section done. The doctor usually places the ventouse on the baby’s head while it is in the birth canal. The instrument is removed once the baby’s head is out. The ventouse, however, cannot be used if the baby is in the breech position.
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