Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is also known as minimally invasive surgery (MIS) or keyhole surgery. This is a daycare procedure and requires general anaesthesia. Small incisions (0.5 to 1.5cm) are made in the abdomen, where a fine telescope is inserted through a small incision at the umbilicus and the internal female organs are visualized. Carbon dioxide is filled in the abdomen to separate the organs so that it is easier for the gynaecologist to see the reproductive organs. The gas will be removed after the procedure. At the same time, the Fallopian tubes are tested for patency using methylene blue dye which is injected at the vagina end. If the tubes are patent, the blue dye will be seen flowing out at the fimbriae (tube) end.

During laparoscopy, the cause of infertility such as endometriosis, adhesion and fibroid can be confirmed. Laparoscopy is diagnostic as well as therapeutic. For an example; at the time of laparoscopy, endometriosis is confirmed and it can be cauterized and treated at the same time. Other treatments that can be done at the time of laparoscopy are release of pelvic adhesion and ovarian drilling (making hole in capsule).

Laparoscopy is indicated for:

1. Ovarian cysts and tumours
2. Myomectomy (removal of fibroids)
3. Tubal surgery
4. Lysis of adhesions
5. Endometriosis
6. Determining the patency of Fallopian tubes
7. Pelvic floor and vaginal prolapse
8. Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
9. Sterilization

Before the laparoscopy, you should:

1. Fasting after 12.00 midnight the night before surgery.
2. Remove all nail polish, make-up, prefume, jewelry and contact lenses.
3. Wear loose-fitting clothes to prevent unnecessary pressure on the umbilicus.

After the laparocsopy;

1.
Medications for pain and nausea will be given.
2.
You will find an incision with 1/2 inch below the navel and two to four incisions with 1/4 inch near the pubic hair line. There will be drainage, watery or pink-tinged, from these incisions for a few days. If the redness of the drainage or swelling pain increases, please consult your gynaecologist.
3.
You may feel sore and exhausted for a few days. However, you should start to move about as soon as possible after the procedure and increase your activity gradually. Do not carry out strenuous activity until your gynaecologist agrees you to do so.
4.
You can resume your sexual life three days after the procedure. But if you have pain, vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge, do not start sexual activity until these symptoms subsides.