Gynaecology
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is minimally invasive surgery used to treat a wide variety of gynaecological conditions. The benefits to laparoscopy include reduced post operative pain, short hospital stay and fast recovery times. Laparoscopic surgery is used for the investigation and treatment of pelvic pain, infertility, endometriosis, cyst removal, hysterectomy and removal of fallopian tubes or ovaries.
Endometrial Ablation
This treatment is a surgical and less invasive alternative to hysterectomy for heavy menstrual bleeding. Endometrial ablation is a technique using either thermal or electrical energy to burn the uterine lining. It does not involve any cuts to the vagina or abdomen and can be performed as a day procedure in theatre.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is an operation which involves removal of the uterus. This may be required in patients with fibroids, heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or prolapse.
Abdominal Hysterectomy
This is often referred to as ‘open’ surgery where the operation is performed through a 15-20cm incision on the abdomen. This is required for more difficult cases and usually has a longer hospital stay and recovery period than other methods of performing a hysterectomy.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
This operation is commonly referred to as ‘keyhole’ or minimally invasive surgery. The benefits of laparoscopic hysterectomy are reduced pain and shorter post operative recovery time.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
The uterus is removed via incisions through the vagina. This is common for women with symptoms of prolapse.
Vaginal Prolapse repair surgery
Prolapse can occur to the bladder, bowel or uterus. This results from a weakness in the vaginal supports and causes a protrusion through the vaginal walls. It is more likely to occur with activities that increase the intra-abdominal pressure such as heavy lifting or straining. The symptoms often include a noticeable bulge, lump or dragging sensation.
Prolapse surgery aims to reattach the vagina to its original supports.
Abnormal Cervical Screening Test, Colposcopy and LLETZ
If you have been referred for investigation of an abnormal Cervical Screening Test the next step may be to have a colposcopy. A colposcopy involves examining your cervix under a microscope to identify any abnormal cells. During the procedure, it may be necessary to take a biopsy of the cervix. This may be associated with some cramping and discomfort which resolves quickly.
A LLETZ procedure may be necessary when there are abnormal cells of the cervix to reduce the risk of progression to cervical cancer. The procedure uses a wire loop with electric current to shave off these abnormal cells. This is done as a day procedure in theatre.
