Informations
For patients
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a surgical approach performed using instruments inserted into the body through small incisions of 5-10 mm, allowing for faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and a quicker return to daily activities. This is referred to as minimally invasive surgery. The length of hospital stay is therefore significantly reduced compared to laparotomy procedures (wide opening of the abdominal wall). We encourage this approach as often as possible. For some pathologies, this approach is not feasible. Many operations are now possible through laparoscopy. Ask your gynecologist if your procedure can be performed using a minimally invasive technique.
Hysterectomies
Hysterectomy was traditionally performed through a transverse incision in the lower abdomen (Pfannenstiel) or even through a vertical incision up to the navel. The vast majority of these procedures are now performed laparoscopically. The development of new surgical instruments designed specifically for laparoscopy has made it possible to expand the indications and offer this approach to almost all patients.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is also a condition that is well suited to laparoscopic treatment. The camera makes it possible to reach areas of the pelvis that are difficult to access during laparotomy and to magnify images, allowing small implants to be visualized.
Surgery on the appendages (ovaries and fallopian tubes) is often performed laparoscopically during a one-day hospital stay (outpatient).
Laparoscopy is also frequently used for specialized procedures such as gynecological oncology or prolapse surgery.
Links
Specialist group Endometriose
www.endometriose.ch
Europäische Endometriose Liga
www.endometriose-liga.eu
Specialist journal «Frauenheilkunde Aktuell»
www.frauenheilunde-aktuell.ch
gynécologie suisse SGGG
www.sggg.ch
Glossary
Laparoscopic approach
The abdomen is first inflated with CO2 to create a working space. A camera is then inserted through a 10-mm incision in the navel, and various instruments are inserted through 5–10-mm incisions. Generally, four incisions are made. In some cases, a single 15–20-mm incision in the navel may be made, and the camera and instruments may be inserted through this single incision.Salpingectomy
(C) Removal of the fallopian tube. This may be unilateral or bilateral. It may be performed at the same time as a hysterectomy or as a standalone procedure, e.g., during an ectopic pregnancy.Urogynecology
A subspecialty of gynecology that focuses specifically on urinary incontinence.Endometriosis
A complex condition in which endometrial tissue (which normally lines the uterine cavity) has implanted outside the uterine cavity, usually in the pelvis.Total hysterectomy
Removal of the uterus and cervix. In this procedure, the vagina must be opened and then sutured closed. The uterus is removed through the vagina. (B)