Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy

A laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy is a complex surgical procedure that should only be performed by skilled surgeons. When performing a vaginal hysterectomy, it may be difficult for the surgeon to see the uterus. In these instances, a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy surgical procedure may be necessary. In such cases, a laparoscope can be used by the surgeon to assist in the surgery. A laparoscope is a slender tube with a tiny camera that is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen.

During a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy, the doctor will view the uterus and other reproductive organs on a television monitor attached to the laparoscope. The surgeon will then create two more small incisions on either side of the abdomen. Through these incisions, the surgeon will perform any necessary cutting and tying of blood vessels, fallopian tubes, and ligaments. The uterus is then removed through a small incision just above the vagina.

A laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy has some advantages and disadvantages. The obvious disadvantage is that the procedure can be significantly more costly than a traditional abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy. In some cases, a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy can be more dangerous as well.

The primary advantage of a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy is the recovery time. Recovery from this type of procedure will be much quicker and will involve less pain than recovery from an abdominal hysterectomy. As always, one should carefully consider all options and the relative advantages and disadvantages of each. A laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy is a complex surgery and should only be performed by skilled surgeons.

© 2007 - 2009 Armity A. Simon, M.D. Obstetrics and Gynecology

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