Advanced Laparoscopic and Hysteroscopic Surgery

Often, gynecologic issues that cannot be detected by an external physical exam can be discovered through laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. These are procedures that rely on tools that give a gynecologist a closer view of the pelvic region. If an abnormality is detected, laparoscopy or hysteroscopy can also be used to operate, and can usually be performed at the same time as the diagnosis.

Advanced laparoscopy and hysteroscopy allow a gynecologist to diagnose and treat many gynecologic issues on an outpatient basis. If a patient undergoes advanced laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery, she can expect her recovery time to be significantly less in comparison to surgery performed through larger incisions.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy uses a laparoscope, which is a narrow viewing tube. It is passed through a small incision in the abdomen and allows the gynecologist to view the exterior of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and internal pelvic area. If surgery is required, your gynecologist will insert a variety of instruments through your incisions in order to perform the surgery.

Examples of gynecologic issues that can be treated using advanced laparoscopic surgery include:

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cyst
• Scar tissue removal
• Opening blocked fallopian tubes
• Treating ectopic pregnancy

Robotic assisted laparoscopic surgery is a form of advanced laparoscopic surgery.

Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy requires a hysteroscope, which is a thin, lighted tube, to be inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix and inside of the uterus. During operative hysteroscopy, narrow instruments are placed into uterus through an opening in the hysteroscope so the gynecologist can remove fibroids, scar tissue or polyps.

Things to Consider

Before undergoing advanced laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery, you should talk to your gynecologist about any questions or concerns you may have. Although these surgeries are minimally invasive, there may be risks you should know about.