Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in Abu Dhabi
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Table Of Content
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (removal of uterus by keyhole surgery )
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is also called keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery. Here surgery is done by small holes over your abdomen.
Hysterectomy means removal of the uterus only.
Various types of hysterectomy are:
- Total hysterectomy – wherein the uterus and the cervix are removed.
- Subtotal hysterectomy – where the cervix of the uterus is not removed. Ovaries may or may not be removed as a concurrent procedure based on several factors like age, the appearance of the ovary or family history of cancer. It is also called Oopherectomy.
Why choose laparoscopic Surgery/Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy
- Smaller incision
- Lesser pain
- Short hospital stay
- Less chance of incisional hernia as with abdominal hysterectomy
- Lower complication rate
- Less bleeding and need for blood products
- Quick recovery
- Early return to work
Some common myths
1) MYTH – Larger uterus and large fibroids cannot be removed.
FACT – Fibroid of any size can be removed. My largest size is almost seven months pregnant size and weighed 1.2 kg uterus.
2) MYTH – Uterus removal is partial.
FACT – The uterus can be removed completely. Its the patient’s choice and case based on which complete or partial hysterectomy is chosen. In reality, by laparoscopy, the view of the abdomen is great and cannot miss any pathology.
Frequent Doubt
- We usually remove the uterus by coring method, which means through the vagina in small pieces.
Before Surgery
You will be assessed for health-associated medical comorbidities.
- A cervical smear will be done to rule out cancer
- The endometrial biopsy will be taken if required
- General health will be assessed
- Need of any blood products will be checked
The doctor will explain the surgery to you in brief. All the instructions will be explained right from giving anaesthesia to completing the surgery. Other aftercare details like how long to avoid food/water & pre-medications will also be given.
About Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Procedure
You will be admitted on the day of the surgery about 2 hours before surgery.
You will be given general anaesthesia, wherein you will be put to complete sleep. The sedation lasts short, and you will be completely awake after surgery, maybe a little drowsy and sedated.
It varies from case-to-case, depending on the surgical complexity, and whether you have had any previous surgeries.
Complications is as its for other surgeries. However the rate of injury or bleeding depends on pathology
Usually, recovery is quick following laparoscopy. Some patients may take longer, especially those with diabetes, obesity, smoking, or surgery complications.
What to expect after Hysterectomy in Abu Dhabi?
Dr Divyatha says:
- During discharge, all instructions will be provided
- Keep your diet light and have plenty of fibre and liquid
- Be active, and walk around. Do not sleep always. Avoid heavy exercise
- Avoid sexual activity for 6-8 weeks.
- You can expect some vaginal spotting or bleeding, maybe a few days or weeks later, which is normal.
- You can start normal activities soon or even go to work once fully recovered.
- The physiotherapist will teach you some leg exercises / pelvic floor exercises.
- Some patients are advised to continue smears yearly as screening.
Warning Signs
Most patients recover well, but complications can occur as with any other surgical procedure. Look for these signs and symptoms and meet your doctor at urgent care.
- Fever, bloating, vomiting, and reduced appetite
- Urine burning or increased frequency of urine
- Any watery leak through vagina
- Hot, swollen, and painful legs
- Breathlessness or coughing blood
- Foul discharge through the vagina
- Any bleeding which is more severe than periods
- Scar, redness, and pain
Dr Divyatha is highly skilled in performing laparoscopic procedures and has more than a decade of medical experience. Also, she is one amongst very few lady gynaecologists who offers scarless hysterectomy, laparoscopic hysterectomy, and other complex gynaecological procedures.
So, if you are planning to have a hysterectomy, plan a safe, low-risk, quick recovery laparoscopic hysterectomy in Abu Dhabi with Dr Divyatha who works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you will have one 10 mm scar and three to four 5 mm scars on the abdomen.
Usually, we use glue and dissolvable stitches that do not need removal.
Also, there will be a stitch inside the vagina that dissolves itself, and sometimes it comes out after r few weeks, and it’s normal, nothing to worry about.
We encourage you to walk once you are fully conscious & feeling well (at least 6-8 hours later after surgery) and remove the catheter.
Moving around faster will help you to recover faster and avoid many complications.
We start initially with liquids and later add on to a light diet.
Diet is usually kept simple as you just recovered from anaesthesia and may have vomiting, and your bowels need some time to recover.
Usually after 24 hours, you can go home. Once you have tolerated food, passed gas, and moved well, you are fit to go home. However, you will be expected to follow these suggestions:
- Rest for the following week after surgery
- Limit work or working hours
- Most are ready for work in 2-3 weeks and will not be any harm.
- Avoid heavy work and travel.
Maybe mild pain initially, and once you start moving and pass gas, you will feel better. You will be given a good analgesic. Shoulder pain is common after laparoscopy.
Not all patients need blood. It depends on your condition and the complexity of the surgery.