Laparoscopy

Sometimes, a physical exam alone cannot find the problems that can occur with a woman’s reproductive organs. When that is the case, issues can be discovered by laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. These two procedures provide a direct look at the pelvic organs providing a way to diagnose and treat reproductive issues in women.

Diagnostic laparoscopy looks at the outside of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and internal pelvic area. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is used to look inside the uterus. If an abnormal condition is detected during the diagnostic procedure, a second surgery can be avoided by performing operative laparoscopy or hysteroscopy to correct it simultaneously.

What are the benefits of laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy can help your doctor diagnose and treat many problems, including uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, adhesions, tubal disease, genital tuberculosis, and other abnormalities. Many infertility patients require laparoscopy for a complete evaluation after the basic infertility tests are performed without a clear diagnosis.

Before the advent of laparoscopic surgery, diagnosing and treating gynecological problems required major surgery, including many days of hospitalization, long recovery times, and greater risks. However, laparoscopy allows the correction of these problems on an outpatient basis. The laparoscopy procedure decreases patient discomfort, significantly reduces recovery time and has minimal risks.

How is laparoscopy performed?

After anesthesia, a needle is inserted through the navel, and the abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide gas. As the gas enters the abdomen, it creates a space inside, allowing a view of the reproductive organs. Next, a long thin telescope (laparoscope) is inserted through the navel. It is connected to a tiny camera that sends images to a television monitor. While looking at the monitor, the surgeon can see the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and nearby structures. A small probe is inserted through another incision to move the pelvic organs into clear view. If no abnormalities are noted, the incision is closed. If defects or abnormalities are discovered, your doctor can proceed to operative laparoscopy.

Various infertility disorders can be safely treated through the laparoscope during the same surgery. Using many different operating instruments, your physician can perform procedures including:

For infertility evaluation, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy are often performed simultaneously soon after a woman’s period when uterine conditions are more easily evaluated, and there is no risk of interrupting a pregnancy.

Schedule an appointment with Creekside Center’s doctors to discuss your health.