Laparoscopy

A laparoscopy is used to examine your Uterus, Fallopian Tubes, Ovaries, and Pelvic Wall. It can help the doctor to diagnose the cause of your infertility and decide on the best form of treatment.

In many cases, Endometriosis and other pelvic inflammatory diseases may be the cause of repeated embryo implantation failures. By relieving the abdominal cavity of such adhesions or scarring, there is an increased likelihood that the embryo may implant. This procedure can also be used for treatment of conditions such as removal of ovarian cysts and ectopic pregnancy.

This depends on the reasons for having the laparoscopy. The doctor would be happy to discuss any alternative investigations or treatment if they are applicable to your particular case.

A diagnosis can often be made immediately and can prevent the need for major surgery.

A small number of women (2 out of every 1000) have some internal bleeding which usually does not require any further treatment.

There is a small risk of perforating the bowel or bladder when the needle of laparoscope is inserted. In these circumstances, an immediate operation may be necessary to repair the damage (1 in every 1000). This will involve a bigger incision to the abdomen and a longer hospitalization.

It is possible that a wound infection may develop. Any inflammation, discharge from the wound site or fever (temperature 100.3 or above) that develops, should be reported to your doctor. If you have any concerns about the risks mentioned here, please speak to our medical staff.

Many times this procedure is done on an out-patient basis, where the patient does not require admission to the hospital. Some patients may stay overnight due to side effects from the anesthesia. You are also more likely to stay overnight if the procedure is carried out late in the afternoon or early evening.

You may experience abdominal bloating and pain that is caused by the insertion of gas at the time of the procedure. Sometimes, the pain may be felt in your shoulders and neck. This is not serious and should decrease within 12 hours. Simple pain medication, such as Advil, Motrin, and Tylenol, are effective in most cases

Dissolving stitches are used to close the small incisions. These are absorbed and the remains fall out. This can take over a week. If you find the stitches irritating, notify your physician who can take them out.

You will probably need a week to recover from the procedure. Most people will need a few days off from work, but can return as soon as they feel able. Please follow-up with our office on the date instructed

You should not drive for the first 72 hours and until you can move about freely. As long as you feel comfortable, you should not have problems driving.

This depends on the findings during surgery and can be discussed with a member of the hospital staff before your discharge home.