What is laparoscopy?
A laparoscopy is a type of surgery that uses tiny incisions and a special surgical camera, referred to as a laparoscope, to perform a procedure. A laparoscopy is also sometimes referred to as a minimally invasive procedure.
What are the benefits of a laparoscopy?
The team at Pure OBGYN prefers laparoscopic procedures to more invasive surgeries because of the benefits, which include:
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Smaller scars
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter, if any, hospital stays
Why would I need a laparoscopy?
The team at Pure OBGYN may recommend a laparoscopy to help diagnose or treat a variety of medical conditions.
- Endometriosis: to assist in diagnosis and removal of endometrial tissue
- Cancer: to remove certain types of cancer, such as endometrial or cervical cancer
- Fibroids: to evaluate and remove a benign tumor
- Ovarian cyst: to remove a cyst if it doesn’t resolve on its own
- Pelvic floor disorders: treatment of urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse
- Ectopic pregnancy: for removal and to repair or remove affected fallopian tube
Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia, so you don’t feel any discomfort while the surgeon is looking at your organs or performing a procedure.
What can I expect during a laparoscopy?
After the anesthesia, the surgical specialist at Pure OBGYN cuts a small incision in your abdomen. The site of the incision may vary depending on the reason you’re having a laparoscopy, but is usually under the navel.
Your abdomen is then filled with gas so the surgeon has a clearer view of your organs. The laparoscope is then inserted and a video image is transmitted to a screen.
The physician may make one or two more incisions to insert additional surgical instruments. A uterine manipulator may also be used, which is inserted through your vagina, cervix, and uterus, to move your organs.
What happens after a laparoscopy?
While a laparoscopy is less invasive than an open surgery, you may still feel some discomfort for the first few days after surgery.
The amount of time it takes for you to recover and resume your usual activities depends on the procedure. For minor procedures, you may be back to your usual self within a few days, but more invasive procedures may take a few weeks. The team at Pure OBGYN provide you with an individualized recovery plan so you know what to expect.
For more information about laparoscopic surgery, call or book an appointment online.
