What is a laparoscopy?
A gynecologic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that can be used as a diagnostic tool or to complete surgical procedures. During laparoscopy, Dr. Vishwanath creates a very small incision in your abdomen. He then passes the laparoscope – a long, thin tube with a camera affixed at the end – through that incision to give him a clear view of your reproductive organs.
As a diagnostic tool, laparoscopy can be useful in directly viewing the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and surrounding organs. When an ultrasound or X-ray are unable to give the clarity needed for a thorough and accurate diagnosis, a laparoscopy gives Dr. Vishwanath the necessary visibility.
Alternately, laparoscopy can be used to perform minimally invasive surgery. Using the laparoscope and telescoping precision surgical instruments, Dr. Vishwanath can perform a hysterectomy, remove ovarian cysts, remove incorrectly growing endometrial tissue, and more through a series of very small incisions in the abdomen. This results in minimal pain during recovery, shortened healing times, and minimized scarring for his patients.
Why would I need a gynecologic laparoscopy?
This procedure can be useful to diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions. For example, Dr. Vishwanath can use laparoscopy to explore the cause behind unexplained pelvic pain or to determine the cause of infertility.
A laparoscopy can diagnose a number of conditions, including:
- Ovarian cysts
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Reproductive cancer
Laparoscopy is also used to perform minimally invasive surgeries, including:
- Hysterectomies
- Ovarian cysts removal
- Uterine fibroid removal
- Endometrial tissue removal
What should I expect during my laparoscopy?
To ensure you’re relaxed and comfortable during your procedure, Dr. Vishwanath will use general anesthesia during your laparoscopy. That means you’ll be asleep during the procedure.
Depending on the procedure that was performed laparoscopically, you may be able to head home the same day, or you may need to rest in the hospital for a night or more. Dr. Vishwanath and his team prepare every patient, so she can plan accordingly.
If you’d like to learn more about minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, call Fresno Women’s Care or schedule your appointment online today.
