The female body is a sophisticated structure, and it becomes much more complicated when it comes to internal organs. The female body is structured in such a manner that a variety of diseases and disorders can only be identified internally. In such cases, a physical examination may not yield any noteworthy results. Pregnancy, infertility, uterine problems, and fallopian tube disorders are all common scenarios.
The internal pelvic anatomy of a woman can provide vital information about infertility and typical gynecological problems. What is the function of laparoscopy and hysteroscopy in such cases? Continue reading to learn more.
Laparoscopy VS Hysteroscopy- Overview
During the treatment of infertility, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy are advised. The doctor can see the tissues and organs inside your pelvis and perform specific remedial procedures using these methods.
Laparoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to see and access the outside of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic structures. If you have pelvic discomfort or a history of pelvic disease or pelvic cavities, your doctor may consider a laparoscopy. Uterine fibroids, blocked tubes, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancies, ovarian cysts, adhesions, and other structural abnormalities are among the conditions it can help identify and treat. After the initial fertility examination, a laparoscopy is generally advised.
Hysteroscopy is a treatment that allows doctors to see into the uterus, diagnose abnormalities, and execute some surgical corrections. These operations are best done shortly after menstruation when the view is clear. In order to determine the reason for infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or irregular uterine bleeding, a hysteroscopy is frequently recommended. A hysteroscopy can detect abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, scarring, and congenital deformities inside the uterine cavity. During hysteroscopy, surgery may be performed to repair certain abnormalities.
Laparoscopy VS Hysteroscopy- How is it Performed?
Laparoscopy– In most cases, the surgery is performed under general anesthetic. A laparoscope is a telescope-like tube that is inserted into the abdominal cavity through a tiny incision in the navel or nearby location. The internal organs are then separated from the cavity wall by carbon dioxide gas, which is injected into the abdominal cavity. This allows for better vision via the laparoscope while also reducing the risk of injury. To manipulate the tissues being assessed, a tiny probe is placed via a similar incision in your lower belly. To identify any clogs, fluid is passed through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes.
If a problem is discovered, surgical devices placed through 1-2 more incisions in your lower abdomen may be used to address it. When the surgery is finished, the devices are withdrawn, the abdomen is deflated, and the incisions are sutured closed. Some operations cannot be performed using the laparoscope and must be done through an open incision.
Hysteroscopy– The operation is done on an outpatient basis and does not require any incisions. A set of dilators is used to temporarily enlarge the cervical canal. A hysteroscope, a thin, long illuminated viewing tube, is then inserted through the cervix to reach the uterus. Saline fluid is injected through the hysteroscope to widen the uterine cavity and allow a clearer view of its interior anatomy. Long surgical tools are placed via small passages in the hysteroscope to reach the interior of the uterus and perform surgery. A catheter may be left in the uterus once the treatment is finished.
Some surgeries may need the administration of medications to prevent infection and promote recovery. You may have discomfort, vaginal discharge, and bleeding, for a few days after the procedure. In a day or two, you should be able to resume your normal activities.
Laparoscopy VS Hysteroscopy- Reasons
Reasons for Laparoscopy-
- Diagnosis
- Dysmenorrhea (painful menses)
- Dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse)
- Endometriosis Treatment
- Fimbrioplasty (repair of fallopian tubes)
- Myomectomy (removing fibroids)
- Ovarian Cystectomy (remove cysts)
- Ovarian Drilling
- Pelvic Adhesions
- Pelvic Pain
- Removal of Scar Tissue
- Salpingectomy (removing tubes)
- Tubal Recanalization
- Unexplained Infertility
Read more about Laparoscopy procedure and infertility – Dr Banker
Reasons for Hysteroscopy–
- Abnormal Bleeding
- Abnormal Hysterosalpingogram
- Abnormal Sonogram
- Abnormal Sonohysterogram
- Diagnosis
- Removal of the Uterine Septum
- Removal of Scar Tissue (adhesions)
- Myomectomy (removing fibroids)
- Polypectomy (removal of a polyp)
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
- Removal of Foreign Body
- Tubal Cannulation (open blocked tube)
Laparoscopy VS Hysteroscopy- Risks
Laparoscopy– You may suffer some discomfort and bruises at the incision sites after a laparoscopy. You may also experience discomfort as a result of the gas being introduced into your abdomen. The type and extent of the surgery will determine how uncomfortable you are. You should be able to leave the hospital the same day and resume your normal activities within a few days. Any other operation carries hazards such as infection, hematomas in the abdominal wall, skin irritation, and, in rare cases, damage to internal organs, blood vessels, and nerves.
Hysteroscopy– Hysteroscopy, like other operations, is linked with a small number of problems, including uterine perforation, bleeding, and small injuries to adjacent organs. The fluid that is used to enlarge the uterus might potentially cause problems as well.
Various gynecological diseases, including infertility, can be diagnosed and treated by laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. Many operations may be done as outpatient procedures since they are minimally invasive, have fewer problems, and take less time to recover from. Diagnosis and treatment are sometimes carried out simultaneously, decreasing the number of hospital visits. However, Dr. Manish Banker recommends that you get a basic evaluation and workup done before deciding on any of these procedures.