A laparoscopic hysterectomy us a type of hysterectomy performed with a class of slender optical tubes commonly referred to as laparoscopes. Performed by this manner, hysterectomies often result in shorter recovery and operating times than usual surgeries of this type. It is also quite common for there to be much less scarring and because of this many women request laparoscope assisted procedures.
How is this operation performed and who are good candidates for laparoscopic hysterectomies?
Basic laparoscopic hysterectomies begin with a short incision below a woman's navel, in which a laparoscopic instrument is inserted. The doctor then examines the women's pelvic area with the instrument, deciding where to perform additional cuts with the slim surgical instruments. The laparoscope is then used as a surgical guide while the surgeon removes the uterus from the women's body. The uterus is dissected into sections which are the right size to be removed through the abdomen cuts so very few stitches are required to close these small incisions.
Variations on the basic laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure are known as laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy and laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. A disadvantage of the common vaginal hysterectomy is that the reproductive organs and pelvic area is a blind spot to the surgeon. By using a laparoscopical instrument during a vaginal hysterectomy procedure, a surgeon can see the complete female reproductive area.
With the laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, the cervix can remain untouched while removing the uterus. Leaving the cervix has many benefits, as it acts as a support for many pelvic ligaments, and can eliminate the effect of post hysterectomy decreased sexual response and vaginal dryness. This procedure is gaining popularity amongst physicians and patients.
Laparoscopic hysterectomies are appropriate for only some conditions, such as small-medium uterine fibroid removal, and less serious cases of unusual bleeding and endometriosis. Women who have a uterus which has grown beyond normal size may not be suitable candidates for this procedure.
All types of hysterectomy are major surgeries, which should not be taken lightly. They should be thoroughly researched and understood before undergoing the actual surgery. Alternate remedies, short of surgery should be contemplated with doctor's approval. However, if surgery is deemed necessary, the possibility of the less invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies should be discussed with the woman's doctor. If the woman's condition allows, she may feel that laparoscopic hysterectomy is her best course of action. Of course it should go with out saying but this article is for informational purposes only and you need to consult a professional for the safest and best advice.
