suction and curettage: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Medical
Quick answer
What does “suction and curettage” mean?
A surgical procedure involving the removal of tissue from the uterus using suction and a curette (a sharp-edged instrument).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A surgical procedure involving the removal of tissue from the uterus using suction and a curette (a sharp-edged instrument).
Primarily refers to a method of abortion (also called vacuum aspiration) or treatment for miscarriage, where uterine contents are removed via suction followed by scraping to ensure complete evacuation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term itself is identical. However, 'suction and curettage' is a formal term; in both regions, 'D&C' (dilation and curettage/curottage) is a more common synonym, though technically describing a slightly different procedure. 'Vacuum aspiration' is also common.
Connotations
Identical connotations: medical, clinical, often associated with abortion or post-miscarriage care.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, restricted to medical/healthcare contexts. 'D&C' is more frequent in lay medical discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “suction and curettage” in a Sentence
The doctor performed suction and curettage (on the patient).The patient underwent suction and curettage.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “suction and curettage” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The consultant decided to suction and curette the uterus to manage the incomplete miscarriage.
American English
- The OB-GYN will suction and curette to complete the abortion procedure.
adjective
British English
- The suction-curettage equipment was prepared and sterilised.
American English
- She reviewed the suction-curettage procedure notes in the chart.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in medical and public health research papers, nursing and medical textbooks.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would be replaced by 'D&C' or described in plain language (e.g., 'a procedure to clear the womb').
Technical
The primary context. Used in surgical notes, patient records, clinical guidelines, and discussions between healthcare professionals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “suction and curettage”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “suction and curettage”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “suction and curettage”
- Using 'suction and curettage' to refer to dental procedures (incorrect).
- Thinking 'suction' and 'curettage' are always separate—they are parts of one specific procedure.
- Confusing it with 'dilation and evacuation' (D&E), a different procedure used later in pregnancy.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a method used to perform an abortion, particularly in the first trimester. However, the same procedure is also used for non-abortion purposes, such as treating a miscarriage or diagnosing uterine conditions.
They are often used synonymously, but technically, 'D&C' (dilation and curettage) involves widening the cervix and scraping. 'Suction and curettage' specifies the use of suction (vacuum aspiration) followed by scraping. In modern practice, suction is almost always involved, so the terms overlap significantly.
No, it is typically considered a minor surgical procedure, often performed on an outpatient basis. It usually requires either local or general anesthesia.
Yes, a 'sharp curettage' uses only a curette without suction. However, the combined term 'suction and curettage' refers to a specific, common technique where suction is used first, often followed by a light curettage to ensure completeness.
A surgical procedure involving the removal of tissue from the uterus using suction and a curette (a sharp-edged instrument).
Suction and curettage is usually technical/medical in register.
Suction and curettage: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌk.ʃən ænd ˌkjʊə.rɪˈtɑːʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌk.ʃən ænd ˌkjʊr.ɪˈtɑːʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SUCTION (to vacuum out) AND CURETTAGE (to scrape clean). Two steps, one procedure for uterine tissue.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLEANING/CLEARING OUT (the uterus as a container).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'suction and curettage' exclusively used?