What is a total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH)?
A total laparoscopic hysterectomy is the surgical resection of the cervix and uterus through tiny abdominal incisions. TLH is done to treat the following disorders
- Uterine fibroids are non-malignant tumours that form within the uterus and on the outside of the uterus.
- Uterine fibroids are non-malignant tumours that form within the uterus and on the outside of the uterus.
- Infection present in the fallopian tubes and ovaries: Pelvic inflammatory disease refers to an infection in one or several of the upper reproductive organs (the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries).
- Persistent pelvic pain may be chronic and occur in the region underneath the belly button between the hips and prolongs for six months or longer.
- Thick, overgrown tissue in the uterine lining causes it to thicken, a condition known as endometrial hyperplasia. Endometrial hyperplasia is linked to a short menstrual period, heavy menstrual bleeding, and postmenopausal bleeding.
- Heavy/abnormal vaginal bleeding (Menorrhagia), a condition that results in long and heavy menstrual bleeding, may occur as a result of hormonal issues, issues with the uterus and other related health conditions.
Furthermore, the fallopian tubes, ovaries and pelvic lymph nodes may also be surgically removed, depending on the type of condition. If the ovaries are surgically removed, depending on age, menopause may have initiated.
How do you perform a total laparoscopic hysterectomy?
A slender plastic tube (cannula) is placed through a vein in the arm using a needle. After the general anaesthetic is administered and you have fallen asleep, a catheter (a tube used to drain urine) is placed into the bladder.
Next, a small incision (about 2 cm) is created within or near the belly button. A harmless gas is inflated within the abdominal region, and a surgical device (laparoscope) is placed in order to view the internal organs in detail. Then, two or more smaller incisions are made. These much smaller incisions are made to place additional surgical equipment. In most cases, the cervix and uterus are surgically removed through the vagina.
Fortunately, laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomies carry several benefits as these procedures are linked to minimal blood loss, a quicker return to day-to-day activities, fewer abdominal wall infections and a shorter hospital stay.
FAQ
A full physical examination is performed, which includes blood tests and comprehensive imaging studies. It's important to alert your physician to the types of medications you take or the prescription you are given.
You will be instructed to stop eating or drinking for at least six to twelve hours before the procedure.
Yes, a total laparoscopic hysterectomy is considered a serious operation and is usually advised when other, simple operative remedies have failed.