Laparoscopy
This is a procedure used to look inside the abdomen, by inserting a thin telescope with a light source called a laparoscope. It is passed into the abdomen through a small cut in the skin. 2 or 3 additional small cuts are also made, to pass through instruments and perform the procedure.
A laparoscopy is done to find the cause of symptoms and at the same time provide treatment. It is also known as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery. Complex laparoscopic procedures require advanced levels of expertise.
Most gynaecologists can perform laparoscopic surgery but complex and challenging procedures require advanced skills, which can only be gained through training, experience and keeping up to date with modern advances in the field.
At the London Women’s Centre, we offer cutting-edge treatments at the highest standard carried out by gynaecologists with the training and skills necessary to carry out these procedures. Our main goal is to achieve the best outcome and ensure the patient’s safety.
Which conditions are diagnosed and treated using laparoscopy?
In gynaecology common conditions treated via laparoscopic surgery include:
• Endometriosis (excision of endometriosis implants)
• Ovarian cysts (removal of the cyst)
• Fibroids (myomectomy)
• Ectopic pregnancy (removal of the ectopic or the fallopian tube)
• Heavy bleeding (removal of the womb and cervix)
• Sterilisation (clipping of the fallopian tubes)
• Adhesiolysis (division of adhesions between various organs)
• Pelvic abscess
Benefits
• Shorter hospital stay
• Fast recovery and return to daily activities
• Less pain and discomfort after the operation
• Reduced bleeding
• Reduced risk of infection
• Better visualisation and access for the surgeon
• Reduced risk of a clot in the legs or the lungs (DVT or PE)
• Decreased risk of adhesions
• Better cosmetic outcome
Risks
As every operative procedure laparoscopy carries some risks. Those include infection or bruising of the scars, bleeding, accidental damage to structures inside the abdomen, such as the intestines, bladder or blood vessels. Also there is a small risk to converting the operation to a laparotomy (open procedure).