What is a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy?
A laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy is a procedure to surgically resect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and uterus through tiny incisions. As a result, a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy entails a comprehensive view of the uterus through the insertion of a miniaturised camera in one of the tiny incisions made over the abdomen.
How do you perform a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy?
Inside the theatre, the general anaesthetic administered before the procedure will prevent you from experiencing any pain. Once asleep, before surgery commences, the anaesthesia providers will assess the best ways to handle your breathing. A catheter is then strategically placed in the bladder to help drain excess urine and to determine the amount of urine draining from the bladder. Afterwards, compression stockings are wrapped over the legs to minimise the risk of blood clot formation in the lungs and legs during the operation.
A tiny telescopic device with a light at the end is placed through a single incision to view the pelvic area in expansive detail. Additional surgical tools are placed through the incisions to sever the ligaments, which help release the uterus from the abdomen. Additional tubing is inserted through the smaller incisions, enabling the introduction of probes and other surgical tools. Still several surgical procedures may still be carried out without creating an expansive incision. For example, if the ovaries and fallopian tubes need to be removed, these structures are detached from the blood supply and nearby ligaments.
Surgeons then remove the uterus through the vaginal opening. Furthermore, the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed simultaneously. Before the surgery, you can adequately discuss with the surgeon what you will have removed before signing the consent form. In order to view the operative site extensively, carbon dioxide is used to inflate the area to view the inside in extensive detail. At the end of the operation, most of the gas is forcefully expelled from the region.
FAQ
Following a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain
- Pelvic fullness
- Light vaginal bleeding is to be expected
The entire procedure can take two hours to complete, but the time varies depending on what needs to be done.
7-10 days