ABSTRACT
A significant feature of gynaecology in the UK in recent years has been the increased availability and use of the hysteroscope. This instrument, which is designed to enable the surgeon to visually inspect the uterine cavity, was first developed in Germany and France. Although a few British gynaecologists, including the author, were using early versions of the instrument almost 20 years ago, it was not until technical developments in optical systems and light sources improved the quality of the view that the procedure became more widely adopted. These improvements have been accompanied by electronic advances which have produced small, light camera systems which may be attached to the basic instrument allowing the procedures to be viewed on screen and to be recorded on videotape and as still photographs.
