Minimally invasive surgery has advanced over the last 10 years. The improvements in the technology surrounding this modality of surgery has allowed us to push the limits of what can be beneficially offered to our patients. We are witnessing an era locally where we are able to offer this approach to surgery in Gynaecology for majority of conditions (cancers and non cancers) that is comparable to any developed nation.
We have perfected this approach with a tailored peri-operative protocol to enhance patients’ satisfaction while prioritising safety. This has been successfully achieved in hundreds of patients under our care.
What is laparoscopic (“keyhole”) surgery?
This is a surgery that is performed using 3-4 ports (size 5-10mm) on the tummy. This is also known as minimally invasive or keyhole surgery. This is now the standard of care for the majority of Gynaecological conditions that require abdominal surgery.
Some common indications and procedures performed using this technique
Indications - Uterine fibroids, Ovarian cysts, Endometriosis, Gynaecological Cancers (uterus, ovary, cervix)
Procedures – Hysterectomy (removal of womb), Myomectomy (removal of fibroids), Ovarian cystectomy (removal of ovarian cysts)
What are the advantages?
Unlike traditional surgery, laparoscopic gynecological surgery offers numerous benefits to patients, including:
• faster recovery times
• less pain
• reduced scarring
• shorter hospital stay
Majority of complex laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries performed at our institution allow
women to be discharged within 24 hours.
What to expect after Laparoscopic surgery?
• You can have a light meal after your surgery when you are awake
• Women are discharged within 24hours
• You will be allowed to shower the day after your surgery
• You will be fully ambulant with limited strenuous activities within the first week of surgery
• You will be allowed to drive after 2 weeks.
Some Common myths
• Previous surgery makes laparoscopic surgery unsafe. – FALSE
Laparoscopic surgery can be performed safely in women who have had multiple surgeries.
• My doctor can see better if its through a big cut rather than through a tiny hole. – FALSE
Laparoscopic surgery is like doing your surgery through a microscope. It is associated with less complications than an open approach when performed by trained professionals.
• A large ovarian cyst and uterus cannot be removed using a laparoscopic approach. – FALSE
We can now remove a large ovary and uterus using laparoscopic bags. A decision on whether this should be done would also depend on the diagnosis. A consultation is required with your health care provider to determine if this surgery is appropriate.
• Removing my womb leaves an empty space in the pelvis. – FALSE
A non pregnant uterus is small organ and there is no empty space if it is removed.
Enquire about your treatment options so you can make an informed decision about which treatment is right for you.
Dr Vishal Bahall MRCOG
Gynaecologist and Gynaecological Oncologist
Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon
BSCCP certified Colposcopist
