Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that allows doctors to examine the pelvic region, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and cervix. It is a contemporary and very effective procedure that has mostly replaced earlier infertility operations.
Instead of massive incisions, this surgery involves only minor incisions under the navel. Which is why it is often referred to as ‘keyhole surgery’.
The laparoscope is a specialized tool that includes a camera and a flexible tube to diagnose and treat infertility. This specialized device with its camera and specialized tools is introduced into these small incisions to help doctors observe the inside of the body and display real-time images on a monitor. It is a useful method for detecting and treating endometriosis, uterine fibroids, blocked fallopian tubes, and pelvic adhesions.
Prior to performing a laparoscopy, several tests are performed, including blood analysis, urine test, electrocardiogram (ECG), X-ray, CT scans, and MRI scans. These tests assist in diagnosing the situation and deciding the best course of treatment.
The procedure for laparoscopic surgery
Laparoscopy is a surgery frequently utilized for diagnosing and treating infertility. It is typically done on a day-care basis, which means patients can return home the same day. Anaesthesia will be administered throughout the surgery to enhance patient comfort. Here is a basic explanation of how laparoscopy works.
- General anaesthesia is frequently used to induce sleep during the surgery.
- There is no pain throughout the process.
- Incisions of 0.5-1 cm in length are made below the navel.
- A cannula, a short flexible tube, is inserted to fill the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide gas.
- The laparoscope is then introduced through the incision which displays real-time images on a screen.
- The needed instruments are introduced during the surgery, and either an infertility evaluation or laparoscopic infertility treatment is performed.
- After the surgery is completed, the cannula, laparoscope, and other tools are removed, and the wounds are closed with surgical tape or stitches.
- Following surgery, the patient’s respiration rates and heartbeats are continuously monitored, for any anaesthesia-related troubling side-effects.
- After a few hours, after the anaesthetic wears off and all vital signs return to normal, the patient will be discharged. Throughout the procedure, every precaution is taken to ensure the patient’s safety and well-being.
Laparoscopy for infertility diagnosis involves a few incisions and is only used to determine the underlying reason for infertility. On the other hand, operative laparoscopy requires further incisions and is used to treat, rectify, or repair the underlying cause of infertility.
Who is an ideal candidate for Laparoscopy?
Women with high-risk factors, abnormal ultrasound scan or HSG (hysterosalpingogram) results, or who have been battling with infertility for a long time may require a laparoscopic evaluation and/or treatment. Several conditions indicate the necessity for a laparoscopy, including:
- Hysterosalpingography is an X-ray method used to detect obstructions in the fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy can efficiently eliminate blockages in the fallopian tubes, improving the success rate of reproductive treatments.
- Laparoscopy is an effective treatment for endometriosis, which can cause fertility problems, abnormal menstruation, and pelvic pain.
- In the event of PCOS, laparoscopic ovarian drilling can be an effective treatment to encourage regular ovulation.
- Laparoscopic operations can be used to mend a deformed uterus, remove fibroids, and treat pelvic adhesions, all of which improve fertility prospects.
Large endometriotic cysts should not be removed without seeing your doctor, since this may have an influence on ovarian reserves. Your doctor can advise you on possible options. Additionally, proper wound care, such as cleansing and dressing, is critical to preventing subsequent infections.
What to expect from a Laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is an extremely successful means of identifying and treating infertility problems. This treatment is done under anaesthesia, and it is usual to have a minor sore throat afterward.
Patients who have had laparoscopy may experience pain, discomfort near the incision site, and belly bloating as a result of the use of carbon dioxide. However, these symptoms usually resolve within a few days of the procedure.
In some situations, individuals may have pain near their shoulders, which normally fades within one to two days. To address any unpleasant symptoms, doctors may give pain medications and antibiotics, and patients should rest for a few days.
Laparoscopic procedure risks
Laparoscopy for infertility, like any other surgical procedure, involves some risks. However, it is crucial to emphasize that difficulties occur in just a small percentage of patients, approximately 1-2 percent, during or after the treatment. These complications may include:
- Anaesthetic-related issues
- Mild complications such as infection or skin irritation at the incision site.
- Formation of adhesions and hematomas, which are swellings caused by blood vessel injury.
- The risk of developing an allergic reaction, nerve damage, or blood clots.
- Sometimes a device or laparoscopy can accidentally injure an organ in the belly or pelvis, such as the bowel or bladder.
Although this can happen to anyone, it is more common in women who have had previous abdominal surgery, have pelvic adhesions, or are overweight.
If an injury occurs, a wider incision is required to repair the damaged organ, and the patient must remain in the hospital for recovery. Don’t be alarmed as these complications are very rare and are completely treatable.
Conclusion
Laparoscopy has been shown to be effective for detecting and treating a variety of reproductive issues. The primary goal of this treatment is to check the internal pelvic condition, resolve any abnormalities, and reduce the necessity for big incisions. Individuals undergoing laparoscopy for infertility might expect a quick recovery, less discomfort, and a higher chance of conceiving.