What is Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus using a laparoscope – a thin, lighted tube with a camera at its end – and specialized surgical instruments. Instead of a large abdominal incision (as in traditional open hysterectomy), the surgeon makes several small incisions (typically 3-4, each less than a centimeter) in the abdomen.
Through these small incisions, the laparoscope is inserted to provide a magnified view of the pelvic organs on a monitor. The surgical instruments are then inserted through the other incisions to carefully detach and remove the uterus. Depending on the patient’s condition and needs, the fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed during the procedure. The uterus is then removed through one of the small incisions, or through the vagina.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Compared to traditional open hysterectomy, Laparoscopic Hysterectomy offers numerous benefits, making it a preferred choice for many patients:
- Minimally Invasive: Requires only small incisions, leading to smaller, less noticeable scars.
- Less Pain: Patients typically experience significantly less post-operative pain.
- Shorter Hospital Stay: Most patients can go home within 1-2 days, compared to 3-5 days for open surgery.
- Faster Recovery: A quicker return to normal activities and work.
- Reduced Blood Loss: Generally associated with less blood loss during surgery.
- Lower Risk of Infection: The smaller incisions may reduce the risk of infection.