Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis

The most common way to treat endometriosis is through the use of laparoscopic surgery. Instead of having to endure a large abdominal incision for surgery, a physician will make a small series of cuts and use a lighted instrument to view the pelvic cavity. If the physician needs better access, there may be more incisions needed to allow room for other surgical instruments. If a physician recommends laparoscopic surgery it may be to view the internal organs to check for signs of endometrial tissue or other problems and it can be done to remove any adhesions or endometrial tissue as well. If the woman is found to have an endometrial cyst, the physician is likely to remove it during laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis which may increase the woman's chances of getting pregnant and alleviate pain.

For a woman getting ready to undergo a laparoscopic procedure, the person should not eat or drink eight hours prior to the surgery. Usually, laparoscopic surgery is performed under general anesthesia, though a woman can remain awake when using local or spinal anesthetic. For a laparoscope, the abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide which is injected via a needle, the abdominal wall is then pushed away and the organs can be better viewed. Once the abdomen has been inflated, the surgeon will insert a laparoscope into the pelvic area and check the organs. The procedure usually takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending upon the severity of the endometriosis. If there is scar tissue and adhesions to be removed, the surgeon may cut and remove the tissue or burn it with a laser beam or electrical current.

Laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis is one of the best ways to treat the disease. Most laparoscopic surgeries are done on an outpatient basis, but if there are complications involved a woman may need hospitalization. It is completely normal for a woman to have apprehensions or hesitations about having a laparoscopic procedure, but asking questions and consulting with a medical professional should allay any initial fears. When undergoing laparoscopic surgery, a woman should wear loose fitting clothing and have a companion available to provide transportation home from the hospital. To control any discomfort, a woman can take an over the counter pain reliever and should spend at least 24 hours resting in bed. It is important to take it easy and follow any advice given by the physician in order to have the best recovery possible and to avoid any complications from having laparoscopic surgery.