Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and cervix (and sometimes the fallopian tubes and ovaries) with the use of a laparoscope. The surgery is performed by making 3-4 small incisions in the abdominal wall through which the laparoscopic instruments are placed. The hysterectomy is performed with the aid of the laparoscope and the uterus is removed either vaginally or through the laparoscopic ports. A variation of the laparoscopic hysterectomy is the laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH). With this procedure, the hysterectomy is started laparoscopically but is completed vaginally.

The main advantage of either a total laparoscopic hysterectomy or an LAVH is shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery time compared to an abdominal hysterectomy. The role of a laparoscopic hysterectomy is to avoid performing an abdominal hysterectomy in selected patients. If the hysterectomy can be performed vaginally, then the straight vaginal route of removal is preferred.

Patients undergoing either a total laparoscopic hysterectomy or an LAVH are usually kept overnight in the hospital for observation. If all goes well, they are discharged home the next morning. They still will need 2-3 weeks of recovery at home before they can resume all of their routine activities. If a hysterectomy is indicated, your doctor will determine whether or not you are a candidate for a laparoscopic procedure.