Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Procedures Offered

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Uterine fibroids can cause pressure symptoms (frequent urination, pelvic pressure, constipation), abnormal uterine bleeding and can reduce fertility in certain cases. In patients that have not completed childbearing and have symptomatic uterine fibroids, laparoscopic myomectomy is a good option. The laparoscopic approach has several advantages over laparotomy (less bleeding, infection, adhesion formation), however many surgeons are unable to offer this approach and recommend a large incision instead. In those cases, we strongly urge patients to seek a second opinion since the vast majority of myomectomies can be done laparoscopically. Dr. Einarsson has performed close to 1000 laparoscopic myomectomies, some of which involved fibroids that extended well above the belly button. It is important to remove all visible and palpable fibroids and therefore preoperative planning with an MRI is recommended. Average recovery time is about 3 weeks after the laparoscopic approach, but 6-8 weeks after a laparotomy.

Video on Laparoscopic myomectomy and excision of endometriosis

Warning: The video on Laparoscopic Myomectomy provides a detailed and graphic insight into the surgical procedure, intended for mature audiences due to its explicit content and medical nature.

Important Information about the Procedure

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves removing uterine fibroids through small incisions in the abdomen. It is typically performed under general anesthesia and usually takes around 1-3 hours to complete. 

 During the procedure, the surgeon will make several small incisions in the abdomen and insert a laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera attached to it. This allows the surgeon to see inside the abdomen and guide the surgical instruments. 

 The surgeon will then use specialized instruments to locate and remove the fibroids from the uterus after which the uterine wall is reapproximated with dissolvable sutures. The fibroids are then removed through one of the small incisions in the abdomen. 

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of laparoscopic myomectomy with your surgeon before the procedure and to carefully follow their instructions for post-operative care to minimize the risk of complications. 

 

Potential complications of laparoscopic myomectomy include:

There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery, which may require blood transfusions or additional surgery.

There is a risk of infection at the incision sites or within the abdomen, which may require antibiotics. 

There is a small risk of injury to nearby organs such as the bladder, bowel, or ureter during the surgery, which may require additional surgery to repair. 

 

Scar tissue can form after surgery, causing organs to stick together and potentially leading to pain or other complications. 

In some cases, fibroids can grow back after myomectomy, requiring additional surgery. 

 

Laparoscopic Myomectomy