What is a gynaecological laparoscopy?
A gynaecological laparoscopy is a minimally invasive (keyhole procedure) performed to evaluate the pelvic region, including the womb, ovaries and fallopian tubes. There exist two forms of laparoscopy such as:
- A diagnostic laparoscopy: An investigative procedure performed to evaluate the cause of abdominal and pelvic pain and diagnose the cause of infertility pertaining to the health of the fallopian tubes and whether or not they remain unobstructed and open.
- An operative laparoscopy: Operative gynaecological laparoscopy is used to resolve several gynaecological disorders such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and ovarian cysts.
A specialist gynaecologist will further explain the reason for a laparoscopic procedure. A pre-assessment, which is carried out at the time of the outpatient appointment, is done. A comprehensive pre-assessment procedure is performed by a highly experienced nurse who conducts a full health screening and determines your eligibility for surgery and anaesthesia.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is an extremely painful condition that causes discomfort in the pelvic region. It occurs when tissue that resembles the inner uterine lining develops outside the uterus.
Typical signs of endometriosis include painful menstrual bleeding, painful sexual intercourse, pain during urination and bowel movements, increased (heavy) menstrual bleeding, infertility, bloating, constipation, nausea, lethargy and diarrhoea.
How do you perform a gynaecological laparoscopic procedure?
A diagnostic laparoscopic procedure involves creating several smaller incisions within or underneath the belly button. A slender needle is placed through this incision within the abdominal region and attached to a supply of carbon dioxide gas inflated in the abdomen.
A fertility evaluation is done differently and involves injecting a special dye into the fallopian tubes through the cervix (the long neck of the womb). An operative gynaecological procedure entails creating several smaller incisions in order to insert the required surgical tools.
Once the full examination is complete, all surgical tools are removed, including as much of the gas as possible. Dissolvable stitches, plaster, and tissue glue are used to seal the incisions.
Following the procedure, it’s important to rest and allow sufficient time to pass for the effects of the anaesthetic to wear off. The total duration of recovery depends on the type of procedure selected and the length of the operation.
How do you perform a gynaecological laparoscopic procedure to treat endometriosis?
During a laparoscopic procedure, a slender, long, illuminated tube (laparoscope) is placed through the abdomen through a tiny surgical incision. Tissue samples are removed or examined in detail beneath the microscope. Furthermore, a laparoscope may also be used to surgically resect implants, scar tissue, and cysts that arise due to endometriosis.
FAQ
Laparoscopy is done while the patient is heavily sedated under general anaesthetic. This means you'll remain asleep while the procedure is being carried out.
It varies as healing is different from one patient to another. But a 4 weeks period is mostly ok.
Laparoscopy is the most widely executed surgical approach for endometriosis.