Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery, is a surgical technique where small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera)and specialized surgical instruments. This allows surgeons to perform various procedures inside the abdomen with less trauma to the body compared to traditional open surgery.
Laparoscopy is commonly used for various gynaecological conditions, including:
Endometriosis: The most reliable method for identifying endometriosis is laparoscopy, which enables doctors to see scar tissue, adhesions, and implants. Moreover, it can also help with excision or ablation of implants, which may prevent infertility and dysmenorrhea. The goal of surgical intervention is to preserve fertility.
Ovarian cysts: Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure used to assess ovarian cysts suspected of malignancy or causing symptoms like pelvic pain or menstrual irregularities. It helps determine the cyst's size, type, and location, and assess its impact on surrounding structures. The procedure minimizes surgical trauma and preserves ovarian function.
Fibroids: Laparoscopy is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate the size, number, and location of uterine fibroids, providing a direct view of the pelvic organs. It is particularly useful for women with asymptotic fibroids who wish to maintain fertility by removing fibroids while preserving the uterus.
Ectopic pregnancy: To remove a pregnancy that implants outside the uterus.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Laparoscopy is used to evaluate pelvic inflammatory disease; providing direct visualization of inflamed tissues, abscesses, and adhesions, potentially preventing complications like infertility or chronic pelvic pain.
Adhesions: To remove scar tissue that may be causing pain or infertility.
Hysterectomy: To remove the uterus, either partially or completely.
Tubal ligation: To perform sterilization by blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes.
Diagnostic purposes: To investigate pelvic pain, infertility, or abnormal bleeding when other tests are inconclusive.
