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Gynecological laparoscopy is one of the procedures performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes by a gynecologist. Thus, gynecological laparoscopy is performed when endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts are suspected, and pelvic pains, the cause of which is unknown. This procedure also allows you to determine the cause of difficulties in getting pregnant. What is the course of gynecological laparoscopy? Can gynecological laparoscopy have side effects?
Gynecological laparoscopy – what is it?
The gynecologist during the gynecological laparoscopy can determine the condition of the reproductive organs. The procedure is performed by a specialist who uses an endoscope to perform the procedure. It is a tool in the form of a tube that is inserted through the abdominal wall into the abdominal cavity. Gynecological laparoscopy can be therapeutic or diagnostic. Depending on this, the procedure is slightly different. The gynecological laparoscopy itself is performed more and more often due to its minimal invasiveness. This means that only a small scar remains where the endoscope was inserted into the abdominal cavity. This includes distinguishes laparoscopy from surgery, which involves the opening of the abdominal wall and often prolonged recovery, as well as aesthetic problems.
Gynecological laparoscopy – indications
Gynecological laparoscopy is performed for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. One of the most common indications for diagnostic gynecological laparoscopy is difficulties in getting pregnant. The test is especially advisable when other causes of infertility, such as genetic diseases or hormonal problems, are excluded. Thanks to gynecological laparoscopy, the doctor can assess the correct structure of individual reproductive organs. It is also possible to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes. The doctor may also notice adhesions. These changes can make it difficult to conceive. Sometimes, however, they can be cured during therapeutic gynecological laparoscopy. The main indication for its performance is to find the cause of pelvic pain. It happens that the cause of this ailment is ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis or inflammatory processes within the pelvic organs.
Gynecological laparoscopy – course
As mentioned, the course of laparoscopy depends on whether the procedure is performed for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The beginning of the procedure is similar as it involves the operator making a small incision below the navel. Then it is necessary to insert a tube (trocar) to which is attached a tank filled with carbon dioxide. Pumping gas into the abdominal cavity is important to create space between the organs of the body and to facilitate insertion of the endoscope. It also reduces the risk of damage to other abdominal organs. Carbon dioxide is pumped under a pressure of approximately 13 mm Hg. This is the optimal value, as a higher one could compress the gas on the veins. The volume of gas varies from 1 to 5 liters. It is a variable value as it depends on the size of the abdominal cavity of the patient undergoing gynecological laparoscopy. After the operator performs the procedure of pumping carbon dioxide, the endoscope is inserted. While the gynecologist performs this activity, a second incision is required. This treatment is done with a scalpel or the so-called trocar. If the laparoscopy performed is diagnostic, then it may be necessary to introduce other tools that will allow to obtain an appropriate image of individual tissues. Said tools are introduced through other openings made in the abdominal wall. It happens that during laparoscopy, a specialist notices unfavorable, pathological changes in the tissues, which, however, will be able to correct them immediately. This is, of course, related to the introduction of other tools by making appropriate incisions in the abdominal wall.
Performing gynecological laparoscopy involves some modifications. The first involves the introduction of appropriate specialist tools not through the abdominal wall, but through the vagina. The second modification involves setting the patient’s position. It must be in the Trendelenburg position (anti-shock), which means a higher position of the pelvis in relation to the head. This allows for a specific removal of the greater net and intestines from the site where the gynecological laparoscopy procedure is performed towards the chest. This is a great help for the person performing the procedure.
Gynecological laparoscopy – complications
Gynecological laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, and complications occur in only 1%. women undergoing surgery. The most common side effects are intestinal perforation, bleeding in the genitals and bacterial infections.