Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
27 Mar 2012
Gynaecology
Hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus with surgery. There are many reasons a hysterectomy can be performed such as fibroids, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, prolapse, chronic uterine pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, pre-cancerous conditions, cancer and endometriosis.
Dr. Brad Armstrong and Dr. Heng Tang can perform total laparoscopic hysterectomy depending on the clinical circumstances.
A hysterectomy can be performed using a laparoscope, which is a thin keyhole camera that allows the surgeon to see the pelvic organs. The laparoscope and other instruments are inserted through small incisions in the skin and then used by the surgeon to remove the uterus.
Carbon dioxide gas is blown into the abdominal cavity to allow a clear view of the pelvis. The uterus is removed through the vagina.
This procedure generally takes no longer than an abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy, but does not involve a large incision on the skin.
There are a number of criteria that need to be met before a laparoscopic hysterectomy can be undertaken including the size of the uterus, previous surgery and so on. We will discuss this with you during a consultation.
Like every operation, there are risks which need to be discussed pre-operatively. There is a risk of converting from a laparoscopic procedure to an open procedure if there are technical difficulties and it is in the best interest of the patient’s safety.