A minimally invasive procedure to reduce menstrual bleeding.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the uterus through small abdominal incisions. It may be recommended when conditions affecting the uterus cause significant symptoms or when other treatments have not provided enough relief.
The procedure uses a small camera and specialised instruments to remove the uterus through keyhole surgery. Depending on your individual circumstances, the cervix, fallopian tubes or ovaries may also be removed.
Your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms, medical history and individual circumstances to determine whether laparoscopic hysterectomy is appropriate for you.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a keyhole surgical procedure used to remove the uterus. Unlike an abdominal hysterectomy, it is performed through several small incisions rather than one larger abdominal incision.
A thin camera called a laparoscope allows your surgeon to view the pelvic organs during the procedure. The uterus is then separated from the surrounding tissues and removed, usually through the vagina or through a small abdominal incision.
The exact type of hysterectomy will depend on your condition, symptoms and individual circumstances.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be considered when conditions affecting the uterus cause symptoms that significantly affect your quality of life.
You may benefit from hysterectomy if you:
Treatment options depend on the underlying condition and may include medication, hormonal treatments, other surgical procedures or hysterectomy.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy may be considered when symptoms continue despite other treatments or when other treatment options are not suitable.
Your gynaecologist will consider factors such as:
Important: A hysterectomy permanently removes the ability to become pregnant. Your doctor will discuss the implications of the procedure, alternative treatments and whether your ovaries and cervix should be removed before surgery.
During a laparoscopic hysterectomy, your gynaecologist uses a small camera and specialised instruments inserted through several small abdominal incisions.
The uterus is carefully separated from the surrounding tissues and blood vessels before being removed. Depending on your individual circumstances, the cervix, fallopian tubes or ovaries may also be removed.
The procedure is designed to remove the uterus while using smaller incisions than traditional open abdominal surgery.
Before recommending laparoscopic hysterectomy, your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms and medical history to determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you.
You may need examinations, imaging or other investigations depending on your symptoms and the condition being treated.
Your doctor will also discuss:
During the Procedure
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during surgery. Small incisions are made in the abdomen to allow the laparoscope and surgical instruments to be introduced.
The uterus is detached from its supporting tissues and removed. The small abdominal incisions are then closed once the procedure is complete.
What Can I Expect After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
Many people can return home within one to two days, although the length of stay will depend on the extent of surgery and your individual recovery.
You may experience:
Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions about pain relief, wound care, activity and when you can return to your usual routine.
Recovery varies from person to person, so it’s important to follow the advice provided by your treating team.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy may:
For many people, laparoscopic hysterectomy can provide significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life.
Important Considerations
A hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure and is not suitable for everyone. It permanently ends the ability to become pregnant, and menstrual periods will stop after the uterus is removed.
There are also potential risks associated with the procedure, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, injury to the bladder, bowel or ureters and complications related to anaesthesia. Your individual risks will depend on your health, the type of hysterectomy and whether other organs are removed.
