Gynecological Laparoscopy

      Fibroid surgery is typically performed by laparotomy, an open abdominal surgery whereby an 8-10 cm incision is made in the lower abdomen. The procedure is painful and may take up to a month to recover. Likewise, there are several risks and possible complications of laparotomy, such as wound infection, wound dehiscence, incisional hernia, and prominent scar. However, the emergence of technology and the expertise of surgeons have led to the development of gynecological laparoscopy, which has been increasingly adopted as an alternative to the standard abdominal approach.

      Laparoscopy or minimally invasive surgery is a surgical procedure used to remove fibroids or treat abdominal diseases. During the procedure, a laparoscope is placed through 5-12 mm incisions in the abdomen or through the vaginal cavity to perform surgery. The entire procedure is performed under general anesthesia, during which patients feel little to no pain. Moreover, patients can return to their normal activities within 5-7 days after the surgery.

Diseases or conditions that can be treated with laparoscopic surgery

• Ovarian cysts or benign ovarian tumors, such as a 20 cm ovarian mass or a large mass extending beyond the umbilicus
• Ectopic pregnancy such as pregnancy that occurs in the fallopian tube and is accompanied by abdominal hemorrhage
• Chocolate cysts or endometriosis
• Pelvic adhesions that cause chronic abdominal pain, such as adhesions that develop after an infection or cesarean delivery
• Early-stage endometrial cancer or cervical cancer 

Advantages of laparoscopic surgery over the conventional open surgery 

1. Less pain
2. Shorter length of hospital stay (0-2 days)
3. Faster recovery (5-7 days)
4. Better aesthetics due to a substantially smaller incision or 
5. Lower risk for surgical site infections
6. Lower risk for incisional hernia
7. Lower risk for postoperative abdominal adhesions

Dr. Dithawut Khrutmuang
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine
Fertility Treatment and Laparoscopic Surgery

Follow Our Social Network