Uterine fibroids and other health problems related to the uterus can cause many discomforts for women. These issues can lead to symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on nearby organs. When these symptoms become difficult to manage with medication or lifestyle changes, surgery may be recommended.
Thanks to medical advancements and medical device manufacturing companies, many gynecological surgeries can now be done using a less painful and quicker recovery method known as laparoscopic surgery. Two common types of laparoscopic procedures used to treat uterine issues are laparoscopic hysterectomy and laparoscopic myomectomy. This blog will help you understand what these procedures are, when they are needed, and what to expect.
What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery is also called minimally invasive surgery. Instead of making a large cut on the abdomen like in traditional surgery, doctors make a few small cuts. Through these cuts, they insert a thin tube with a camera (called a laparoscope) and special surgical tools. The camera sends images to a screen, and the surgeon uses these images to guide the tools and perform the surgery.
This type of surgery causes less pain, leaves smaller scars, and helps the patient recover faster.
What is Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove a woman’s uterus. Sometimes, the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes may also be removed, depending on the condition. Once the uterus is removed, the woman can no longer get pregnant.
When is a Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Needed?
Doctors may suggest a laparoscopic hysterectomy for the following reasons:
- Uterine fibroids that cause heavy bleeding or pain
- Long-term pelvic pain
- Endometriosis (a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside it)
- Uterine prolapse (when the uterus slips down into the vaginal canal)
- Abnormal bleeding that doesn’t stop with other treatments
- Precancerous or cancerous growths in the uterus
Types of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
There are different types of laparoscopic hysterectomy:
- Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH): Removes both the uterus and cervix.
- Laparoscopic-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH): The uterus is removed through the vagina with help from laparoscopic tools.
- Supracervical Hysterectomy: Removes only the upper part of the uterus, keeping the cervix in place.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
- Small incisions and minimal scarring
- Less pain after surgery
- Faster recovery (usually 2–4 weeks)
- Shorter hospital stay
- Lower risk of infection and blood loss
What is Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
A myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids (non-cancerous tumors) from the uterus without removing the uterus itself. It is often chosen by women who wish to keep their uterus and possibly have children in the future.
When is a Laparoscopic Myomectomy Needed?
Doctors may recommend myomectomy if fibroids cause:
- Heavy or painful periods
- Pressure in the lower abdomen
- Pain during sex
- Problems with urination or bowel movements
- Trouble getting pregnant
Who Can Have a Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
This type of surgery is best for women who have:
- A small number of fibroids
- Fibroids that are not too large
- Fibroids that are located on the outer or middle layer of the uterus
Benefits of Laparoscopic Myomectomy
- The uterus is preserved
- Less pain and faster healing
- Shorter hospital stay (often same day or one night)
- Lower risk of complications compared to open surgery
- Smaller scars
What to Expect After Surgery
- Recovery After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
- You may go home the same day or after one night in the hospital.
- Light activities can usually be done within a week.
- Full recovery usually takes around 3 to 4 weeks.
- If the ovaries are removed, you may experience menopausal symptoms.
Recovery After Laparoscopic Myomectomy
- Mild pain and swelling are common in the first few days.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or having sex for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
- If you’re planning to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about how long you should wait.
Are There Any Risks?
Like any surgery, there are some risks, such as:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to nearby organs (like the bladder or bowel)
- Formation of scar tissue (adhesions)
- In rare cases, the surgeon may need to switch to open surgery
However, these risks are low, especially when the surgery is done by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon.
How to Choose the Right Surgery
Choosing between a laparoscopic hysterectomy and myomectomy depends on several factors:
- Your age and desire to have children
- The size and number of fibroids
- How serious your symptoms are
- Your overall health
You should discuss your options with a gynecologist or laparoscopic surgeon who can recommend the best treatment based on your individual needs.
Final Thoughts
Laparoscopic hysterectomy and myomectomy are modern, effective treatments for fibroids and other uterine conditions. They offer the advantage of quicker recovery, less pain, and fewer complications than traditional open surgery. If you’re dealing with troubling symptoms caused by fibroids or other uterine problems, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
With the right guidance and treatment, you can regain control over your health and enjoy a better quality of life.
