At London Women’s Centre, we are renowned for our expertise in minimally invasive surgery procedures including laparoscopic hysterectomy and laparoscopic myomectomy. We deliver tailored healthcare services using the latest technologies and state-of-the-art medical equipment. Our priority is recommending and performing effective treatments and providing a personalised approach to patient care.
Laparoscopy is minimally invasive surgery used to see inside the abdomen and pelvis without making large cuts through the skin. It uses a thin telescope called a laparoscope.
A laparoscopy also referred to as keyhole surgery does not involve making large incisions and is the gold standard operative treatment for most gynaecological conditions. The recovery time is much faster than open surgery, and the risk of scarring and other complications is much lower.
A laparoscopic procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia so that the patient won’t feel any pain. It involves making between one and four small incisions in the skin and then passing through a laparoscope. The laparoscope is a thin tube with a telescope, light and camera attached. Then carbon dioxide gas is passed into the abdomen. This allows the surgeon to look around and operate.
Following the procedure, the gas will be released from the body, and the cuts will be closed up with stitches and a dressing. Many patients can go home on the same day, although you may need to stay in the hospital for one or two days.
Patient Testimonial
"Following on from my final appointment with Mr Athanasias on Tuesday evening, I would like to express my infinite thanks to him for all that he has done. From my initial consultation I felt at ease as he explained things in a way that was easily understood and finally acceptable to me. Despite the operation being such a major procedure I have experienced virtually no pain and only very little discomfort. Due to his patience, knowledge, articulation and, ultimately, his overall skill I couldn't have asked for a better Consultant. Once again, I thank you."
Even though most gynaecologists perform laparoscopic surgery, only a few will be able to carry out advanced complex procedures. This requires advanced skills and can only be gained through training, experience and staying updated with modern advances in the field.
At the London Women’s Centre, we deliver advanced treatments of the highest quality, by gynaecologists with the proper training and skills. Our top priority is obtaining the best possible result while ensuring patient safety.
Laparoscopic surgery is less invasive and has various benefits over other invasive procedures, such as shorter hospital stays.
There is also a reduction of:
Moreover, the need for only a few incisions means less scarring than more invasive methods, achieving a better cosmetic outcome for the patient. The surgeon performing the procedure can also better visualise and access the pelvic area for diagnosis or treatment. If a condition is found, the surgeon may also be able to treat it during the same operation.
At the London Women’s Centre, we suggest preparing for your procedure with simple steps to provide a smooth experience.
At the initial consultation we will discuss your medical history, assess clinically and address concerns, ensuring you’re well-informed and prepared. It’s important to adhere to advice on medication and supplements as provided by our consultant. You will be advised regarding medication you are already on and can interfere with the surgery. You should also stop smoking as this slows down the healing process and can cause further complications.
As your surgery nears, you will undergo a detailed preoperative assessment.
Finally, ensure you have arranged transportation post-procedure, as you’ll be unable to drive due to the anaesthesia.
Our team is committed to supporting you at each step, so reach out with any concerns or for further clarification as your laparoscopy approaches.
Patient Testimonial
"I felt happy to explain all my symptoms to Mr Athanasias, who spent an incredible amount of time going through all options available to me, he was very informative and I was comfortable with his recommendations and my choices. My operation was carried out swiftly and my recovery was problem free. Mr Athanasias listened and provided solutions even outside of his area of expertise and my life has certainly changed for the better."
Laparoscopy
Following the aftercare (post surgery) plan is essential for a smooth recovery. You may experience some discomfort, such as mild pain at the incision sites, abdominal cramps, or shoulder pain – these are normal post-surgery symptoms resulting from the procedure.
Rest is of utmost importance. Ensure you have a comfortable environment to recuperate and avoid any strenuous activities.
For your safety and comfort, having someone stay with you for the first 24 hours following your procedure is strongly recommended.
Remember to attend your scheduled follow up appointment to assess your recovery and discuss any concerns. The support from the London Women’s Centre is a continuous commitment, ensuring that you receive expert care and advice to facilitate a total return to your daily activities.
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with any surgical procedure.
Minor complications affect a small number of patients—around 1 to 2 in every 100 cases.
These may include:
Serious complications are considered exceptionally rare, occurring in 1-4 out of every 1,000 cases. These risks are carefully discussed prior to your surgery, and the skilled team at the London Women’s Centre takes every measure to ensure the highest standards of care in the safest hospital environments in London.
Laparoscopy surgery is used in the diagnosis of various conditions that develop inside the abdomen or pelvis especially when they are difficult to detect through other non-invasive procedures such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI scan.
There are several conditions which are diagnosed and treated via laparoscopic surgery, including:
Laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for all patients. We will offer an alternative option when the extend or nature of the pathology or other concomitant medical conditions dictate another approach. We believe in personalised care after detailed discussion with the patient and careful consideration of all individual factors.
One alternative is a laparotomy, which is a more invasive procedure that involves making a large cut in the abdomen and performing open surgery. We will discuss the best option based on your needs and outline the risks and benefits of each type of surgery.
Patient Testimonial
"Last year, after suffering from ongoing lower abdomen pains and concerns that I had endometriosis, Mr Athanasias performed a laparoscopy on me. From the initial consultation to the operation itself, Mr Athanasias was incredibly helpful, friendly and professional. I had seen a number of consultants already to rule out bowel conditions and it was refreshing to be seen be somebody who really listened to me and genuinely cared. He explained the process in detail and then straight after the operation, took me through the photographs of his findings to explain everything to me. Fortunately I did not have endometriosis but he found a small cyst in my Fallopian Tube and some adhesions which he successfully removed. I recovered well from the operation and at my follow up consultation Mr Athanasias went through all the details with me. I am now 25 weeks pregnant with my first baby which is extremely exciting. I will be truly grateful to Mr Athanasias for the fantastic service he gave me and would highly recommend him to any women who need to undergo gynaecological operations."
Laparoscopy
The use of laparoscopy, a minimally invasive type of surgery, has become the go-to method for many common procedures, including important ones like removing the uterus (hysterectomy) or taking out fibroids (myomectomy). Due to this, traditional open surgery is now less common than it used to be.
Most gynaecologists carry out simple laparoscopic procedures, but only a few surgeons are able to perform advanced procedures. It requires special training, surgical expertise, good knowledge of pelvic anatomy and surgical experience. At London Women’s Centre, we are proud of our excellent clinical outcomes for patients requiring advanced and complex Laparoscopic procedures, including laparoscopic hysterectomies and laparoscopic myomectomies.
Prior to the Laparoscopy, we will discuss the anticipated length of stay (usually from a few hours to 2 days, depending on the complexity of the surgery), the after-effects of the anaesthetic.
You will also be informed about the care of the scars, including information about the skin sutures and dressings.
We will go through the findings of the procedure in detail and review the relevant images.
Some pain or discomfort will be managed with adequate painkillers on discharge.
You will be given detailed instructions on how to prevent clot formation (e.g., DVT), and blood thinners will be prescribed if necessary.
At London Women’s Centre, we take all the appropriate measures to ensure a quick and uneventful recovery. You will have 24-hour access to your surgeon.
We will explain when you should seek medical advice and provide detailed instructions regarding issues such as when to return to work, resume exercise, what foods to avoid, when to start driving, and when to travel.
10 Knaresborough Pl,
Kensington, London,SW5 0TG
Chelsea Bridge Road
London, SW1W 8RH
801 London Road, North Cheam
Sutton, Surrey, SM3 9DW
53 Parkside, London
SW19 5NX
184 Coombe Lane West
Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7EG
London Women’s Centre
Open : Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Mr Panayi’s Secretary:
Amy Foskett-Jones
Tel: 07990781826
Fax: 0208 082 5560
Mr Athanasias’ Secretary:
Angela Hughes
Tel: 07731522542
Fax: 0203 725 9935
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