A procedure in which the cervix is gently opened and a loop shaped instrument is inserted to scrape away the inner lining of the uterus.
"dilation" means to expand or open the cervix (entrance to the uterus); "curettage" refers to scraping the lining of the uterus to remove growths (e.g. fibroids) or pregnancy tissue (i.e. abortion)
Surgical procedure that involves opening the cervix and scraping the uterine lining.
D & C is a minor surgical procedure in which the physician first dilates or opens the cervix and then inserts a thin spoon shaped instrument and uses it to remove material from the internal lining of the uterus. Dilation therefore stands for opening the cervix and curettage means the scraping of the uterine wall.
dilation and curettage, or scraping of the uterine lining while the cervix is dilated
dilatation and curettage (die-lay-shun and cure-uh-tazh): a test in which the cervix is opened slightly so that a sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus can be removed and studied.