Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery, done under general anaesthesia, that uses a small camera through a tiny incision near the navel to view the pelvic organs and treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids or blocked fallopian tubes, offering diagnosis and treatment in one.
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery, done under general anaesthesia, that uses a small camera through a tiny incision near the navel to view the pelvic organs and treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids or blocked fallopian tubes, offering diagnosis and treatment in one.
OVERVIEW
What is a laparoscopy?
The laparoscopic surgery is carried out via small incision under general anesthetic. It involves a telescope with a camera, which is used to examine the organs inside the pelvis area. Various devices are used via other incisions to deal with different problems such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids or blocked fallopian tubes. Being both diagnostic and therapeutic method, laparoscopy is widely applied in the process of fertility treatment. Patients usually return home either the same day or stay in the hospital overnight. Cramps, bloating or pain in shoulders caused by gas being pumped into the abdominal cavity during the operation can be felt for several days. Women are able to resume regular activities and go to work within 5-7 days; however, performing physical exercises or lifting heavy objects is not recommended for two weeks.
Step by step process
Three phases. Day-care in most cases.
Preparation
Pre-operative bloods and a pre-anaesthetic check. Fasting from midnight.
The procedure
Under general anaesthesia, the abdomen is gently inflated with gas and a telescope inserted through a small incision. Endometriosis, adhesions or cysts found can be treated through additional small incisions. Dye may be passed to check the tubes.
Recovery
Day-care in most cases, occasionally one night. Shoulder-tip discomfort from the gas is common for a day or two. Most women return to work within three to seven days.
FOR WHOM
Is a laparoscopy right for you?
It is important to perform laparoscopy on any woman who may be suffering from conditions of the womb, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvis which can affect her chances of conception. It’s especially relevant if:
Important to know
What to expect
When a laparoscopy is not the right step
- Non-invasive tests have not yet been completed
- IVF is already planned and the findings would not change it
- The question concerns the uterine cavity, hysteroscopy is the right test
- An active infection, which is treated first
- Where surgical risk outweighs the likely benefit
Laparoscopy is surgery under general anaesthesia. It should be done when the answer will change what happens next.
What to expect afterwards
- Shoulder-tip pain from residual gas for a day or two, this is normal
- Abdominal soreness around the incision sites
- Small dressings, with stitches that are usually absorbable
- Three to seven days before returning to work for most women
- No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for around two weeks
Call the helpline for fever, worsening abdominal pain, redness at an incision, or persistent vomiting.
Find out whether Laparoscopy is your best next step
The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. One evaluation consultation is usually enough to know.
- Honest advice on your treatment options, based on your own tests
- Transparent pricing before you commit to a cycle
- 24×7 doctor-supervised medical helpline through your journey