Laparoscopy

When you have a gynecological problem that requires surgery, chances are it can be done using minimally-invasive laparoscopy rather than open surgery. Dr. Anna Le and the team at Annandale Ob-Gyn choose laparoscopy whenever possible, because it’s an outpatient procedure that allows you to recover more quickly. If you have a health concern or know you may need laparoscopy, call one of their offices in Annandale or Alexandria, Virginia, or book a consultation online.

What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure that your doctor at Annandale Ob-Gyn & Primary Care uses to diagnose and treat health problems in your abdomen and reproductive organs.

Conventional surgery is performed using one large incision. By comparison, laparoscopy is minimally invasive because it’s done using several small incisions that are typically less than one-half inch long.

The procedure is named after a key piece of medical equipment, a laparoscope, which contains a high-definition video camera and a high-intensity light. In gynecological surgeries, a similar device called an endoscope may be used. The well-lit camera in both devices transmits magnified, 3D images to a large screen, giving your doctor a superior view of the surgical site.

What are the benefits of laparoscopy?

The small incisions used during laparoscopy cause less trauma, which in turn provides significant health advantages:

  • Reduced bleeding
  • Less postoperative pain
  • Quicker recovery
  • Minimal scarring
  • Lower risk of infection

Many minimally-invasive procedures are done in comfort in the offices of Annandale Ob-Gyn & Primary Care. Dr. Le and the team proudly offer a variety of in-office surgical procedures so you can avoid the expense of hospitalization.

What gynecological conditions may be treated with laparoscopy?

Minimally-invasive surgery is considered if conservative treatment, such as medication, fails to help or when you have a severe condition that needs immediate care. Your doctor may recommend treating the following conditions with laparoscopy:

  • Endometriosis
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Pelvic floor disorders
  • Gynecologic cancers

How is laparoscopy performed?

The laparoscope or endoscope is inserted through one incision in your abdomen. Long, thin tubes containing specially designed surgical tools are inserted through a few other incisions. While viewing the surgical site, your doctor controls the tools to complete your procedure.

Laparoscopy may be a diagnostic procedure used to take a tissue biopsy and determine the cause of pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding. It’s also used to perform sterilization and many other types of surgeries including:

  • Myomectomy: removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus
  • Hysterectomy: partial or total removal of uterus
  • Ovarian and fallopian tube cystectomies: removal of cysts or tumors
  • Endometrial ablation: remove uterine lining to treat abnormal menstrual bleeding
  • Salpingo-oophorectomy: removal of one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes
  • Dilatation and curettage (D&C): removes tissue from inside your uterus