Laparoscopy in Gynecology

Modern technology for diagnosis and treatment with minimal trauma

What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows visualization and treatment of diseases of internal organs without the need for a large abdominal opening. Through very small incisions, a lighted camera with optical lenses (laparoscope) and surgical instruments are inserted to perform various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

This method has revolutionized gynecological surgery, offering:

• Faster recovery

• Higher precision of the surgical act

• Less pain

• Lower trauma to tissues

• Lower risk of complications

• Better aesthetic results

How is a laparoscopic procedure performed?

Main steps of the procedure:

• General anesthesia – the intervention is performed under general anesthesia.

• The abdominal cavity is filled with CO₂ to lift the abdominal wall away from the organs, helping to better visualize the organs.

• Insertion of the laparoscope (camera) usually through the navel

• Placement of trocars (channels for instruments) through 0.5–1 cm incisions

• Performing the intervention according to the patient's pathology

• Removing instruments, removing gas, and closing wounds with invisible or adhesive stitches

Uses of laparoscopy in gynecology

Laparoscopy is widely used as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Some of the most common applications include:

Diagnostic laparoscopy

• Vague pelvic pain

• Unexplained infertility

• Suspected endometriosis or adhesions

• Evaluation of congenital anomalies of the uterus and fallopian tubes

Surgical (therapeutic) laparoscopy

• Uterine fibroids - Laparoscopic myomectomy

• Endometriosis - Excision of the lesion and/or ablation

• Ovarian cysts - Laparoscopic cystectomy

• Ectopic pregnancy - Salpingostomy or salpingectomy

• Isthmocele - Excision and repair of the uterine wall

• Adherence after surgery - Adherence list

• Uterine prolapse - Sacrocolpopexy

• Total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH)

Advantages of laparoscopy over traditional surgery

• Better visualization of organs

• Fewer complications

• Less pain

• Shorter hospital stay

• Faster recovery after surgery

• Best aesthetic result

What are the limitations or risks of laparoscopy?

• Although much safer than open surgery, laparoscopy still has some limitations and potential risks, which are rare:

• Risk of damage to the intestines, bladder or blood vessels

• Need for conversion to open surgery in rare cases (bleeding, increased adhesions)

• Wound infection or serous discharge

• Deep vein thrombosis – rarer with early mobilization

• Careful pre-operative assessment and surgeon experience are key factors in minimizing risk.

Recovery after laparoscopy

• The first few days: there may be mild pain, abdominal bloating, and a feeling of pain in the shoulder (from CO₂)

• Return to normal activities: usually within 7–10 days

• Return to sexual intercourse: after 2–3 weeks (depending on the intervention)

• Wounds: require only minimal hygiene care, often no stitches are needed to remove them

Your doctor will provide personalized instructions for:

• Nutrition and digestion

• Movement and physical activity

• The right time to return to work

Laparoscopy and fertility

Laparoscopy is an important tool in the evaluation and treatment of infertility, especially in cases where there are:

Endometriosis

Adherence from previous interventions

Functional or pathological cysts

Blocked pipes

In many cases, after laparoscopic interventions, patients have a significantly increased chance of spontaneous conception.

Are you a candidate for laparoscopy?

Yes, if:

• You have a diagnosis that requires surgical intervention

• Want an easier, more aesthetic and less invasive option?

• Are you looking for fertility treatment?

• Seek a faster recovery

Not every case is suitable – therefore the decision is made after careful clinical and imaging evaluation.