Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Private Hysterectomy cost £1550 at Look Younger Clinic, the surgical removal of the uterus, can be performed through various methods, with keyhole surgery (also known as laparoscopic hysterectomy) being one of the most minimally invasive techniques. This method uses small incisions and specialized instruments to remove the uterus, offering benefits such as reduced pain, shorter recovery time, and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery. We have clinics in London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester.
Understanding Keyhole Surgery for Hysterectomy
Definition and Types: Keyhole surgery involves making small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical tools. There are two main types:
- Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH): Removal of the uterus and cervix through small abdominal incisions. Also called Hysterectomy laparoscopic Total.
- Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH): Removal of the upper part of the uterus while leaving the cervix in place.
Indications for Surgery: This procedure might be recommended for various conditions, including:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Abnormal bleeding
- Cancer prevention
Preparing for Surgery
Pre-surgical Assessment: Patients typically undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies (like an ultrasound or MRI), and possibly a pre-operative consultation with an anesthesiologist.
Patient Preparation: Instructions may include fasting, bowel preparation, and guidelines on stopping certain medications. Patients should also arrange for transportation and post-operative care.
The Surgical Procedure
Steps Involved:
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
- Incision: Two to four small incisions are made in the abdomen.
- Insertion of Laparoscope: The laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions.
- Uterus Detachment: The uterus is detached from its connecting tissues and blood supply.
- Removal: The uterus is removed either through the vagina or in pieces through the abdominal incisions.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or staples.
How long does a laparoscopic hysterectomy take: 2 hours.
Duration and Hospital Stay: The surgery typically lasts 1-2 hours, with a possible short hospital stay or same-day discharge based on the patient’s health and the complexity of the procedure.
Post-operative Care
Recovery from laparoscopic hysterectomy week by week: Patients may experience pain and discomfort initially, managed with prescribed medications. Recovery time varies but generally involves a few weeks of reduced activity.
Laparosopic Hysterectomy recovery time is around 2 weeks.
Healing from laparoscopic hysterectomy:
You can expect to feel better and stronger each day. But you might need pain medicine for a week or two. After a laparoscopy, you may have shoulder pain. This is caused by the air your doctor put in your belly to help see your organs better. The pain may last for a day or two. You may get tired easily or have less energy than usual. The tiredness may last for several weeks after surgery. And you also may have light vaginal bleeding for a few weeks.
It’s important to avoid lifting while you are recovering so that you can heal. It may take about 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover. The recovery time may be shorter for some people.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace.
Follow-up: Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and manage any complications. These check-ups also provide support for adjusting to life post-hysterectomy.
How soon I can fly after laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
Normally you will fly out in a week and we will cover flight with injections of blood thinning medications.
Scars for laparoscopic Hysterectomy:
2 to 4 small scars at various locations through the abdomen
Risks and Complications
Disadvantages of laparoscopic hysterectomy
Like all surgeries, keyhole hysterectomy comes with potential risks:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Damage to surrounding organs
- Hernias at incision sites
- Deep vein thrombosis
Advantages Over Traditional Surgery: Keyhole surgery typically results in less pain, fewer complications, quicker return to normal activities, and less noticeable scars.
Conclusion
Keyhole surgery for hysterectomy is a highly effective and minimally invasive option for women needing a hysterectomy. It offers significant advantages in terms of recovery and overall impact on the patient’s life. However, the decision to undergo this type of surgery should be made after thorough discussion with a healthcare provider, considering all individual health circumstances and the potential risks and benefits.
