What Is Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis?
When the doctor thinks a woman has endometriosis, he or she may recommend a procedure called a laparoscopy (also known as laparoscopic surgery). Laparoscopic surgery is used to help diagnose, and possibly treat, your pelvic condition.
Laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis can be effective at getting rid of the condition and its symptoms. It can help you heal faster and leave the hospital sooner than having an open surgery.
After your anesthesia takes effect, your abdomen (stomach) and vagina will be washed with a special disinfectant solution. Your feet will then be placed in stirrups. A small tube, or catheter, will be placed in your bladder to empty it of urine. The catheter will be taken out before the procedure begins.
Your doctor will start the laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis by putting a speculum into your vagina so that the cervix may be seen clearly. A small instrument will be carefully put into the vagina and through the opening of your cervix. This makes it possible for your doctor to gently move the uterus into different positions. Moving the uterus helps the doctor see the pelvic structures more clearly through the laparoscope.
Then a small incision, or cut, will be made in or just below your navel. Through this incision, a tube, called a trocar, will be inserted into your abdomen. Through this tube, your doctor will slowly fill your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas, which is like the air you breathe out. This gas will expand your abdomen and help your doctor see your pelvic structures more clearly. The special laparoscopic camera will then be put into your lower abdomen. Through this, your doctor will view the inside of your pelvis and abdomen on a video screen, looking for endometriosis. The camera can also take pictures and videotape the procedure. Sometimes the doctor does not find endometriosis, and the surgery is finished at this point.
