A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves removal of the uterus.
Procedure:
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes about 3-4 small incisions in the navel. One of the incisions is used to insert a port (nozzle) that fills the carbon dioxide gas into the abdomen to inflate it. Now laparoscope is inserted through another incision. A laparoscope is a telescope lookalike with a light and camera on the end. It allows the surgeon to clearly view inside of the abdomen on the monitor outside. Other surgical instruments are inserted through rest of the incisions to remove uterus. The specimen is preserved in a plastic bag from the abdomen by enlarging one of the small incisions. After completing the procedure, the carbon dioxide gas is released out, and incisions are closed with sutures or staples, or covered with glue-like bandage.
Hysterectomy can be performed by following:
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Total laparoscopic hysterectomy involves laparoscopic ligation of the ovarian arteries and veins with the removal of the uterus vaginally or abdominally, along with laparoscopic closure of the vaginal cuff.
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Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy is performed in a similar manner, with the exception that the cervix is amputated after occluding the ascending vascular pedicles.
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Laparoscopic-assisted hysterectomy (LAVH involves securing of the ovarian and uterine vasculature via laparoscopy with the rest of the procedure performed vaginally.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
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Faster recovery
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Minimal blood loss
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Only few hours or overnight hospitalization
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Sooner return to work
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Very less pain during and after the procedure
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Negligible risks and complications
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Less chances of wound infection
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High success rate
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Less chance of hernias
