Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis in Statesboro, GA
Endometriosis, a disease when tissue similar to the lining of one’s uterus grows outside the uterus, causes serious pain and makes it more difficult for a woman to get pregnant. In some cases, surgery might be the best option to reduce or relieve pelvic pain. Laparoscopic Surgery is a noninvasive procedure that can reduce or relieve chronic pelvic pain. Surgery may be required to remove adhesions, fibroids, or endometriosis.
What to Expect from Laparoscopy Surgery?
Laparoscopy is the most common procedure used to diagnose and remove endometriosis. As with any surgery, you'll be put under general anesthesia before we begin. Instead of using a large abdominal incision, laparoscopy involves a small incision in the belly button or lower abdomen. Carbon dioxide is then pumped into your abdomen to help the surgeon easily see your organs. Depending on your condition and previously discussed goals, Dr. Sullivan may also take tissue samples, remove scar tissue, repair your uterus, or remove your ovaries during laparoscopic surgery.
The process will reduce the size of the incision, leaving smaller types of scars afterward. Thanks to laparoscopic surgery, a process first used by German surgeon Georg Kelling in 1901, patients don't have to spend as much time under the knife to address issues like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts. The procedure usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Benefits and Recovery Time
You may have commonly heard laparoscopy referred to as a minimally invasive procedure, bandaid surgery, or keyhole surgery. This is because it is a much smoother procedure than traditional abdominal surgery. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery compared with open abdominal surgery include less tissue trauma and scarring, smaller incisions, and faster recovery time. In fact, you'll experience fewer side effects afterward, such as less pain and internal scarring. This surgery can also be performed as an outpatient procedure or a surgery with a shorter hospital stay.
Regarding the recovery process, the healing process will be shorter than open abdominal surgery and you will require less scar treatments as you'll have small surgery scars. You will likely be able to return to your normal activities in one to two weeks.
Comparison of Surgical Methods
| Feature | Laparoscopic Surgery | Open Abdominal Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | Small incision in the belly button | 6 to 12-inch incision |
| Recovery Time | One to two weeks | Longer recovery period |
| Procedure Type | Minimally invasive (keyhole surgery) | Invasive procedure |
| Side Effects | Fewer side effects and less scarring | More tissue trauma and larger scars |
Reliable Surgery at Statesboro Women's Health Specialists
Dr. Sullivan is a highly experienced and well-trained surgeon supported by licensed RNs and certified medical assistants. Dr. Sullivan is well-equipped to handle laparoscopic surgery, meaning you likely won't have to go to East Georgia Regional Medical Center or another hospital to have the procedure. In fact, many procedures can be performed onsite in our accredited, state-of-the-art Surgical Center, decreasing the stress and expense of checking into the hospital. Our Staff will work with you and your insurance company to pre-authorize your procedure and promptly schedule you for treatment.