What is minimally invasive laparoscopic gynecologic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery uses surgical tools that allow the surgeon to access, view and perform surgery through tiny incisions in the abdominal wall. Your OB/GYN provider at Rodeo Drive Women's Health Center can perform exploratory surgery or full procedures with laparoscopic surgery. The small incision allows for faster healing and a lower risk of infection.
During the procedure, the laparoscope is inserted through the small abdominal incision. A gas is used to open and expand the cavity for better viewing. A tiny camera on the laparoscope transmits video onto a monitor so your surgeon can perform the procedure.
What conditions can be treated with laparoscopic gynecologic surgery?
While not all gynecological issues requiring surgery can be treated with laparoscopy, many can. Some gynecological conditions that can be treated with laparoscopic surgery include:
- Ovarian cysts and fibroids
- Hysterectomy
- Tubal ligation procedures.
- Diagnostic evaluation and biopsies
- Endometriosis
- Removal of internal adhesions or scar tissue from prior surgeries
If you have a gynecological condition that requires surgery, talk to your healthcare provider at Rodeo Drive Women’s Center to find out if laparoscopy is an option for you.
How is laparoscopy performed?
In almost all cases, general anesthesia is used during laparoscopic gynecologic surgery, so you won’t be awake during the procedure.
Using the video and small surgical instruments, your surgeon can perform the needed procedures within the reproductive organs. Your OB/GYN then closes the incisions; two to three small scars may remain, but much smaller than if you had open surgery.
What are the benefits of laparoscopy versus open surgery?
When possible, your OB/GYN at Rodeo Drive Women’s Health Center will suggest minimally invasive surgical options like laparoscopy for your surgical treatment. This is due to the many advantages these procedures can offer over open surgery. Some of the advantages include:
- Smaller incisions and less scar tissue, lowering the chance of infection
- Less bleeding
- Shorter hospital stays or outpatient
- Quicker recovery time
- Less pain
With the advancements in technology, more and more gynecological disorders requiring surgery can be performed with laparoscopy. This reduces the pain, downtime, and risks for women who need surgical treatment.
