Laparoscopic Myomectomy in Bangalore: Procedure & Recovery

Overview

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove fibroids from the uterus. The procedure is minimally invasive, as it uses small incisions, a laparoscope (a thin tube with an attached camera), and special instruments. This method has advantages such as faster recovery, minimal scarring, and less post-operative pain and discomfort. This is a good option for women who want to preserve their uterus for fertility reasons. However, it is important to remember that this method may not be appropriate for all types and sizes of fibroids. Your doctor will assess your condition and plan the treatment accordingly. Read on to know more.

What is Meant by Laparoscopic Myomectomy?

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a procedure in which uterine fibroids (myomas) are removed with the help of a laparoscope. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. They can lead to symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and other issues with your reproductive health.

Laparoscopic myomectomy is performed using small incisions in the abdominal wall. A laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) and other specialized instruments are inserted through these small incisions to perform the surgery. This procedure is suitable for small to medium-sized fibroids that are either located on the outer surface of the uterus or within the muscular wall of the uterus. Unlike a hysterectomy where the entire uterus is removed, a myomectomy removes only the fibroids preserving the uterus. This method therefore is a preferred method for women who would want to concieve in the future. Read on to learn the indications of a laparoscopic myomectomy.
 

When is Laparoscopic Myomectomy Recommended?

Laparoscopic myomectomy is recommended for:

• Symptomatic Fibroids: When fibroids cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or other symptoms that interfere with the quality of life.
• Fertility Concerns: In women experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriages, fibroids are presumed to be a contributing factor.
• Desire for Minimally Invasive Surgery: For patients seeking a procedure with fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery than open surgery.
• Preservation of Uterine Integrity: In patients who wish to maintain their uterus for future pregnancies or personal reasons.
• Specific fibroid characteristics: Generally, if the fibroids are fewer in number, small in size, and accessible then laparoscopic myomectomy would be the right choice.

The final decision on the procedure of choice will be taken by your surgeon keeping in mind your symptoms, general health, and your choice of preserving fertility. A laparoscopic myomectomy is generally not recommended for larger and embedded fibroids.

How to Prepare for a Laparoscopic Myomectomy?

Preparing for a laparoscopic myomectomy involves several steps to ensure safety and the best surgical outcome:

• Preoperative Evaluation: You will undergo a complete pelvic examination, and routine blood work, along with an ultrasound or MRI, to map the location of the fibroids. These tests will help assess your eligibility for the procedure. 
• Medications: Be sure to let your doctor know about any medications that you are taking. You may need to stop or adjust your medications, particularly blood thinners or hormonal drugs. 
• Fasting: You will need to fast after midnight on the day of your surgery as food can interfere with anesthesia and lead to unwanted complications.
• Bowel Preparation: You may be asked to take a laxative or to receive an enema to clear your bowels before surgery.
• Arrange for Assistance: Arrange for transport from the hospital, as you may not be able to drive home after the procedure. Also, arrange for domestic help at home until you recover completely.
• Postoperative Plans: You will need to prepare your home for your recovery. Make sure that all the essential items are arranged within your reach. Choose a room where you can rest comfortably and with easy access to the washroom.

Please note that it's essential to follow specific instructions given by your surgeon or healthcare provider, as these instructions may differ based on your specific circumstances.

How is Laparoscopic Myomectomy Performed?

Here are the general steps of the procedure:

• Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia to keep you pain-free during the procedure.
• Incision and Access: The surgeon makes a few small incisions (about 0.5-1 centimeter) in the abdomen. One is for the laparoscope, which gives the surgeon a live view of the uterine fibroids, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs. Other incisions are used for the insertion of surgical instruments.
• Insufflation: The abdomen is filled with a gas (usually carbon dioxide)  to create a space, allowing the surgeon a better view and more room to work.
• Identification: The surgeon views your uterus, bladder, other organs and the fibroids with the help of a laparoscope.
• Removal: The surgeon cuts the fibroids from the uterine wall. The approach chosen depends on the size and location of your fibroids. In some cases, the doctor may need to break the fibroids into smaller pieces to remove them. The doctor may do this by using an electric knife or a laser to cut the fibroid into pieces and then remove the pieces with the help of surgical instruments.
• Repair: After removing all the fibroids, the surgeon repairs the opening in the uterus with stitches (sutures) or staples. It's important to reconstruct a uterus as accurately as possible to reduce the risk of uterine rupture (in subsequent pregnancies). The myometrium (uterine muscle) is sutured (sewn back) in multiple layers to provide strength and support. 
• Closure: The surgeon closes the tiny abdominal incisions with sutures or staples.
• Recovery: Following surgery, patients are transferred to a recovery area where they are closely watched as the effects of anesthesia wear off.

Before your discharge, you will be given clear instructions on the measures to follow during your recovery and what to avoid. Read on to know more.

Recovery and Aftercare

Here is what to expect during your recovery period.

• Pain Management: Pain medication will be prescribed for patients to manage pain post-surgery. It is important to follow your doctor’s prescription.
• Activity Restrictions: For internal healing purposes, patients need to refrain from strenuous activities, heavy lifting (nothing over 5 pounds), and sex for the first 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.
• Wound Care: Keep the incisions clean and dry. Follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care. Report any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Follow-up Appointments: Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments at regular intervals to monitor your progress in healing and any potential risk of complications.
• Gradual Return to Normal Activities: A few days to weeks following surgery, patients can usually resume regular, non-strenuous activities. Although it might vary for individuals, a full recovery and the return to all activities, including exercise, are often anticipated in 4 to 8 weeks.

Each patient's recovery process will vary, so it's essential to follow the specific guidelines provided by the healthcare team.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Laparoscopic Myomectomy?

The following are the benefits and risks of laparoscopic myomectomy:

Benefits of Laparoscopic Myomectomy

• Less invasive: Key advantages of laparoscopic myomectomy compared to undergoing an open surgery procedure include smaller incisions resulting in less overall trauma to the body.
• Reduced Pain and Scarring: Smaller incisions associated with laparoscopic myomectomy usually result in less post-operative pain and speed the healing process, resulting in smaller and less noticeable scars.
• Shorter Hospital Stay and Faster Recovery: The patient can usually go home the same day or the next morning and return more quickly to normal activities.
• Infection rate: Due to the smaller incisions and more limited need for suturing, the rate of postoperative infections is lower.
• Preserves the Uterus: This method preserves the uterus, maintaining your fertility. 

Risks of Laparoscopic Myomectomy

• Potential Surgical Risks: Risk of bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding organs, and associated risks with anesthesia exist.
• Conversion to Open Incision: In the event of complicating factors, the physician may have to convert to an open procedure.
• Recurrence of fibroids: Although the treated fibroids are gone, new fibroids can grow and cause symptoms
• Adhesions: Internal scar tissue can form, which may cause pain or future fertility problems.
• Fibroid Dissemination: There is a small risk that benign fibrous tissue will be read outside of the uterus during the morcellation leg of laparoscopic myomectomy.

Why Choose Medfin?

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is absolutely normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital in Bangalore, the finest doctor, and the latest procedure at the lowest cost. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery. Think surgery! Think Medfin!