Home Gynaecology Laparoscopic Surgery
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. With its minimally invasive approach, laparoscopic surgery reduces the need for open abdominal surgery, thereby minimising patients’ discomfort and recovery time.
Laparoscopic surgery is suitable for treating gynaecological conditions such as those below.
Abnormal uterine bleeding is denoted by heavy or irregular menstrual periods. Laparoscopic surgery is a treatment option for dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB). This operation occludes both uterine arteries to reduce blood flow to the uterus. The result? Diminished menstrual bleeding while maintaining the patient's ability to conceive.
Chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or longer, can significantly disrupt a woman's daily life. Laparoscopic surgery offers a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for chronic pelvic pain. By enabling direct visualisation of pelvic organs, diagnostic laparoscopy can identify abnormal tissues or infections that are not detectable through non-invasive methods.
Menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea, can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. If these cramps are caused by conditions such as endometriosis or other pelvic disorders, laparoscopic surgery can provide significant relief, alleviating pain and improving the patient's quality of life.
Endometriosis is a disorder where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. It can lead to painful periods, pain during intercourse, and infertility. Laparoscopic surgery allows the surgeon to remove endometriotic lesions or adhesions, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving fertility outcomes.
Ovarian cysts develop inside or on the ovaries, which are located within the abdominal cavity. Laparoscopic surgery can be performed to remove or treat ovarian cysts. The method used depends on the size and type of the cyst and the patient's age, symptoms, and desire for future fertility.
Heavy menstrual periods can lead to significant discomfort and inconvenience. If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, laparoscopic surgery, such as endometrial ablation or resection, can be effective in managing this condition
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo plants itself outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred method for treating ectopic pregnancies. This is because the ectopic pregnancy can be removed while preserving the health and fertility of the patient.
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.
The recovery time after a gynecologic laparoscopy varies depending on the procedure. However, most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
Some common side effects of laparoscopic surgery include nausea, abdominal cramping, and increased urination due to the gas used during the procedure. Some patients may also experience changes in bowel habits for a few days following surgery.
Laparoscopic myomectomy is less invasive than open surgery, but it is still considered a major surgery as it involves the removal of uterine fibroids.
Laparoscopic myomectomy is generally associated with less postoperative pain and a quicker return to normal routine compared to open myomectomy. However, an open myomectomy may be necessary in cases of large, multiple, or deeply embedded fibroids.
Laparoscopic surgery has smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring, compared to open surgery.