Gynaecological conditions can disrupt a woman’s life, from her physical well-being to her emotional stability. Without knowing what to expect or how to treat them, women may find themselves grappling with uncertainty about their bodies and their futures.
Fortunately, laparoscopic surgery offers solutions to a wide range of reproductive health issues.
Gynaecological laparoscopic surgery uses small surgical incisions and a laparoscope—a thin, lighted tube equipped with a camera—to view, diagnose, and treat gynecologic disorders. This approach provides a clear view of the pelvic organs, allowing surgeons to perform complex surgeries with precision.
Most gynaecologists prefer laparoscopic surgery because it minimises trauma to the body, reduces the risk of complications, and shortens recovery times. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions, laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions of 0.5 to 1 cm that significantly reduce scarring and post-operative pain.
It is especially beneficial in gynaecology, where delicate structures like the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes need careful handling. With its minimally invasive approach, laparoscopic surgery reduces the need for open abdominal surgery, thereby minimising patients’ discomfort and downtime.
Laparoscopic surgery is suitable for treating gynaecological conditions such as those below.
Adenomyosis develops when the inner lining of the uterus grows into the uterine muscle, causing pain, heavy periods, and bloating. Laparoscopic surgery is often recommended when adenomyosis symptoms significantly impact your quality of life and other treatments have failed.
Laparoscopic surgery for adenomyosis involves removing the affected tissue while preserving the uterus when possible. Depending on the extent of the surgery and the remaining uterine health, pregnancy is still possible after laparoscopic surgery. It is advisable to discuss your fertility goals with your surgeon. In severe cases, a laparoscopic hysterectomy may be performed.
Keyhole surgery is another name for laparoscopy, referring to the small incisions made during the procedure. For endometriosis, laparoscopy is used to locate and remove endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus.
Keyhole endometriosis surgery is recommended for women experiencing severe pain, infertility, or other debilitating symptoms that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. While the surgery removes existing lesions, endometriosis can recur. Regular follow-ups and lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms.
An ovarian cyst is a sac of fluid that grows on or inside an ovary. Although most are benign, some cysts can cause discomfort as they become larger. A laparoscopic surgery is recommended for the removal of large ovarian cysts, those causing pain, or cysts suspected of being cancerous.
It can remove cysts without damaging the ovaries, through small incisions and using tools inserted alongside the laparoscope. Cysts up to 10 cm in size are typically removed laparoscopically, but larger ones may also be managed based on the surgeon’s expertise.
A fibroid is a growth that develops in or on the muscular walls of the uterus. They can grow to sizes as small as a seed to as large as a melon and can appear in different parts of the uterus. Laparoscopic myomectomy is a surgery that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it suitable for women who want to maintain fertility. A doctor will advise you on this procedure if the fibroids cause heavy bleeding, pain, or fertility issues.
Fibroids up to 10–12 cm can be removed using laparoscopic techniques. However, patients with very large fibroids may be advised to undergo alternative surgical options, such as traditional open surgery, for safer removal.
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a surgery that performs the removal of the uterus through small abdominal incisions, guided by a camera. While it is often considered a last resort, it is recommended for treating severe gynaecological conditions that do not respond to less invasive treatments.
Some conditions that warrant the removal of the uterus include severe endometriosis, fibroids, or uterine prolapse. A laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure may take 2–4 hours, depending on the complexity of each case.
Laparoscopic surgery provides a comprehensive view of the pelvic and abdominal cavities, allowing for accurate diagnosis of conditions that may hinder conception, such as endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, and ovarian cysts.
Moreover, laparoscopic surgery allows for therapeutic interventions that can enhance fertility. These interventions include:
With its precise approach and minimally invasive nature, laparoscopic surgery can significantly enhance fertility outcomes.
Recovery time after gynaecological laparoscopy varies depending on the procedure. However, most patients can expect the following:
Return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
Swelling and soreness around the surgical site in the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery
Abdominal cramping, nausea, and increased urination due to the gas used during the procedure
Remember that recovery rates differ from person to person. Consult your doctor for specific recovery instructions based on your case.
Although gynaecological laparoscopic surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks. These include:
The overall incidence of major complications during gynaecological laparoscopic surgery is relatively low but it’s vital to speak to your doctor about any concerns you have.
Gynaecological laparoscopic surgery is suitable for treating various women’s health conditions. With the benefits of smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and quicker recovery time, it is a convenient treatment option for women with gynaecological conditions.
Our clinic offers minimally invasive gynaecological surgery. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pelvic pain, exploring fertility options, or considering surgical management for uterine fibroids, Dr TC Chang is committed to helping you with a solution.