Instrumentation and distention media for the hysteroscopic treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding.

New hysteroscopes and resectoscopes with continuous-flow designs have greatly facilitated diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopy. Saline is the ideal distending medium for hysteroscopic procedures in which mechanical or bipolar instruments are used; 5% mannitol may be the safest medium for resectoscopic surgery. Regardless of the medium chosen, careful fluid monitoring is essential.