Laparoscopy in Gynecology – What you need to know

Laparoscopy in gynecology (gynaecological laparoscopy) is a less invasive procedure than open surgery. The process is seeing within the pelvic area with a laparoscope (a long, thin tube with a light attached to a camera) to diagnose gynaecological illnesses or perform surgery to cure gynaecological conditions. The laparoscope is introduced through a tiny incision made across the abdomen. To introduce specialist surgical devices, two to three more tiny incisions may be created. Open surgery is more invasive and typically necessitates a significant incision. Laparoscopic surgeries also have a faster recovery time.

Why is laparoscopy in gynecology done?

In gynaecology, laparoscopy can be used for diagnosis, treatment, or both.

Diagnostic laparoscopy may be required for a variety of reasons:

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Having trouble getting pregnant
• Infection in the pelvis

Laparoscopy can be used to identify a variety of gynaecological problems:

• Ovarian cysts or tumours
• Fibroids in the uterus
• Endometriosis
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic adhesions 
• Pelvic abscess 
• Infertility
• Inflammation of the pelvis
• Cancer of the reproductive organs

The following gynaecological problems can be treated by laparoscopy.

• To remove the Uterus (hysterectomy)
• To remove the Tumors in the Ovary or uterus
• Endometriosis
• Removal of scar tissue and adhesions
• Sterilization of the tubes (permanent sterilization)
• Surgical treatment for a prolapsed uterus

How is laparoscopy in gynecology performed?

A general anesthesia is usually used for laparoscopy. As a result, there is no discomfort during operation. This implies that you will be unconcious during the process. To fill the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas, a needle is inserted into the abdomen. The gas expands the abdominal cavity, providing a better view of the organs and keeping the abdominal wall away from the organs, lowering the risk of harm to the abdominal organs.

The laparoscope is introduced through a tiny incision below the umbilicus (belly button) by the surgeon. The footage from the laparoscope’s camera is sent to a screen, providing a clear and enlarged picture of the pelvic tissues.

If the surgery is just being done to make a diagnosis, the video can also be recorded. Only one incision is necessary to implant the laparoscope. Additional minor incisions would be necessary if a surgical operation was to be conducted, through which the surgical tools would be placed. The incisions are stitched up and dressed when the treatment is completed.

What are the complications of laparoscopy in gynecology?

• Bleeding\Infection
• Pelvic discomfort
• Hematoma (blood clots)
• Blood clots in the blood arteries, particularly in the legs’ deep veins (deep vein thrombosis or DVT)
• Urination problems
• Delayed wound healing
• Scarring and adhesions 

Damage to the intestines, bladder, muscles, nerves, major blood arteries, and other tissues