What Is a Pelvic Laparoscopy Procedure?

A pelvic laparoscopy can seem like an intimidating procedure. However, it is minimally invasive, and complications from the procedure are rare. In many cases, this treatment plays a vital role in the diagnosis of a variety of pelvic-related conditions. This review discusses pelvic laparoscopy in greater detail, highlighting how it is defined, when it is needed, and common reasons for the procedure.

What is a pelvic laparoscopy procedure?

Pelvic laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that is performed to look at a woman’s reproductive organs. A laparoscope is used, which is a very thin and flexible tool that not only allows a medical professional to view the reproductive organs, but it can also record images. These images are saved to a patient's file and allow a medical professional to clearly see when there is a need to perform surgery. As any surgical procedures using this method are considered to be minimally invasive, the patient can expect less pain as well as a faster recovery.

Why is a pelvic laparoscopy needed?

Pelvic laparoscopy is commonly recommended for women who have already had X-rays performed and/or have undergone an ultrasound to find out the reason behind their discomfort and/or pelvic pain. When these two diagnostic tests are not able to determine the reason for a woman’s pelvic problems, then a pelvic laparoscopy is often the next best course of action. The procedure is often performed on an outpatient basis, but it can take place in a hospital for close observation when certain laparoscopic procedures are performed, e.g. treating endometriosis.

Common reasons for pelvic laparoscopy

There are many reasons why a medical professional would require a woman to undergo a pelvic laparoscopy, with all of the reasons being directly related to improving her overall health. Common reasons why a woman would need to have a pelvic laparoscopy include:

• To find the reason why she is experiencing pain in her pelvic area
• To take a closer look at a tissue mass
• To confirm that endometriosis is present
• To confirm that pelvic inflammatory disease is present
• To look for any fallopian tube blockages that can lead to infertility issues
• To remove any ovarian cysts present
• To treat appendicitis
• To treat cancer
• To end an ectopic pregnancy
• To treat ovarian torsion
• To treat rectal prolapse or vaginal prolapse
• To treat uterine fibroids

Recovering from a pelvic laparoscopy procedure

How long recovery takes will depend on the reason for the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, the overall health of the patient, as well as their age. It will often only take a few days for most women to recover from their procedure, with other women needing to recover for a period of three or four weeks.

FAQs about a pelvic laparoscopy procedure

Here are answers to some of the more frequently asked questions regarding a pelvic laparoscopy procedure.

How do I prepare for a pelvic laparoscopy?

Your surgeon may recommend not eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your scheduled procedure; this helps avoid any complications with anesthesia. It can also help to wear loose and comfortable clothing and leave all of your jewelry at home. You may also be asked to remove nail polish before the procedure as well. Your surgeon should provide all of the preparation instructions that you need.

Are there risks associated with a pelvic laparoscopy?

All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. However, a pelvic laparoscopy is minimally invasive, and severe complications are rare. The most notable risks include visceral injury and bleeding and injury to the bowel and bladder.

How long does it take to recover from a pelvic laparoscopy?

Most patients are able to make a full recovery within a week after the procedure. If the procedure is performed as a part of a more extensive surgical process, then recovery may two weeks or longer.

Are you currently experiencing pelvic pain?

A pelvic laparoscopy may be necessary to figure out the reason behind your pelvic pain. If you happen to be experiencing minor pain in your pelvic area, know that your minor pelvic pain can turn into something more serious. This makes it essential for you to find out exactly what is going on now, as the sooner you find out what is happening in your pelvic area, the higher your chances of being successfully treated will be. We invite you to call us now to make an appointment so we can talk you through any anxieties you are experiencing or answer other questions you may have about the procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://fresnoobgyn.com or call Camilla L. Marquez, MD at (559) 424-1180 for an appointment in our Fresno office.

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