Pelvic Laparoscopy
This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine the pelvic region for diagnostic purposes. It involves inserting a 5 mm or 10mm laparoscope, a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached, through a small cut in the abdomen, which allows the operating surgeon to see the intra pelvic organs in real-time monitor.
INDICATIONS OF PEVIC LAPAROSCOPY
Individuals who are experiencing symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding may be advised laparoscopy
Infertility ( to check tubal patency , ovarain drilling, tubal clipping for hydrosalphinx , tubal recanalisation)
Endometriosis ( to diagnose and treat and excision of endometrioma)
Ovarian cysts
Adenomyoma ( to excise )
Fibroids ( to remove )
- It is done under general anesthesia to ensure they do not feel any pain during the procedure. The patient is asleep during the procedure .
- A small cut of 0.5cm is made in the belly button and a laparoscope, which is a thin lighted tube with a camera attached to it is introduced.
- CO2 is pumped into the abdomen to create a space between the pelvic organs and the abdominal wall so that the surgeon can see the organs more clearly.
- The pelvic organs are examined using the laparoscope. They may also take biopsies during the operation.
- Removal of instruments: After the examination is complete, the laparoscope and any other instruments used during the procedure are removed from the abdomen.
- Incision closure: The incisions are typically small and may not require stitches. The surgeon may apply a bandage or dressing to the incision site.
Minimally invasive
Reduced hospital stay
Lower risk of complications
Accurate diagnosis
Better cosmetic results
Limited view
Anesthesia complications
Equipment costs
Gas insufflation related discomfort and complications
Anesthesia risks
Cost: Pelvic laparoscopy can be more expensive than other diagnostic procedures, such as ultrasound or MRI
It is performed by a gynecologist who has specialized training in minimally invasive surgery. This includes a general gynecologist ,gynecologic oncologist, reproductive endocrinologist,or any surgeon who has completed additional training in laparoscopic surgery.
Expert operating surgeonsare more likely to have a successful outcome and a reduced risk of complications.
Patients and bystandersmust ask for a referral to a surgeon with expertise in pelvic laparoscopy.
Queries during a consultation must be answered to ensure the surgeon is a good experienced person in the field for that particular procedure.