What is laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgery used to remove the uterus using specialised instruments and a laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera at the end and a light source. The laparoscope is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to view the pelvic organs on a monitor and perform the surgery accurately. The uterus is then removed through the small incisions or through the vagina. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is performed under general anesthesia and can offer many benefits over traditional open surgery, including less pain, less scarring, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times.

What are the indications for laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended for various medical reasons, such as:

• Uterine fibroids: Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended if uterine fibroids cause severe symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure on nearby organs.
• Endometriosis: In cases where there are severe endometriosis lesions in the uterus or surrounding tissues, laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended.
• Hyperplasia of the endometrium, especially when accompanied by atypia (intraepithelial endometrial neoplasia)
• Adenomyosis: Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended for women with adenomyosis, a condition in which the tissue that normally covers the uterus grows into the muscle walls of the uterus, causing pain and heavy bleeding.
• Cancer: Women with endometrial, cervical or ovarian cancer may need a laparoscopic hysterectomy as part of their treatment.
• Prolapse of pelvic organs: Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended if the uterus prolapses out of position and causes symptoms.
• Chronic pelvic pain: In some cases, laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended to relieve chronic pelvic pain that has not responded to other treatments.
• Proactively : on hereditary endometrial cancer syndromes (Lynch syndrome)

It is important to note that each case is unique and the decision to undergo laparoscopic hysterectomy should be made after a thorough evaluation and discussion with your doctor. Laparoscopic hysterectomy may not be suitable for all women and the decision to undergo the procedure should be made in consultation with a qualified gynaecologist. The benefits and risks of laparoscopic hysterectomy, as well as alternative treatment options, should be carefully considered before a decision is made.

ΤWhat should a woman expect in the first days of recovery after laparoscopic hysterectomy?

During the first few days after a laparoscopic hysterectomy, a woman can expect to feel some abdominal discomfort, fatigue and bloating. Painkillers will be prescribed to help manage any discomfort and the patient's vital signs and recovery progress will be closely monitored. It is normal to experience some vaginal bleeding and discharge in the first few weeks after surgery. The patient should use pads instead of tampons and avoid sexual activity until allowed by the surgeon. Walking and light activity are encouraged to promote healing and prevent clotting. However, vigorous activity, lifting heavy objects and driving should be avoided for at least six weeks or until deemed appropriate by the surgeon. It is also common for patients to experience emotional fluctuations during the recovery period. Women should contact their doctor if they experience feelings of depression or anxiety. Overall, recovery from a laparoscopic hysterectomy can vary from person to person, but most women can expect to return to normal activities within four to six weeks after surgery. It is important to follow the postoperative instructions provided by your doctor, including taking any prescribed medicines, maintaining good hygiene and keeping your follow-up appointments.