Laparoscopy Fertility Treatments, Procedure, Stitches and Risks from IVF Chelsea in London, UK

Laparoscopy is a common technique which allows the visualisation of the organs inside the abdomen. In gynaecology this will generally mean the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The technique can also be used to operate on these organs and their complications such as endometriosis or ectopics. It has the advantage over a traditional open operation (laparotomy) of using much smaller incisions, which greatly reduces the recovery time.

Laparoscopy Procedure

The Laparoscopy Procedure is nearly always performed under general anesthesia and the patient will not be aware of what is occurring. A small incision is made within the umbilicus and the abdominal cavity is filled with gas. When this is complete and checked to be safe a telescopic instrument or laparoscope is inserted which will allow a view of the pelvic organs on a video screen.

Once an initial inspection has been made further small incisions may be made in the lower abdomen which will act as portals for instruments which will facilitate further inspection and operation as required.

Laparoscopy Stitches

Many surgeons will use a dissolving stitch, which does not need to be removed. However in my own practice I will use a nylon stitch to close the wounds. These will need to be removed in 4 or 5 days, either by your GP or myself. This leads to a much better cosmetic result.

Laparoscopy Risks

These procedures are very common, but as with all operations, they do not come without any risk. Laparoscopy Risks can include:

Risk of anaesthesia – under modern conditions for planned procedures these are very small. Your status will be monitored throughout the procedure by the anaesthetist. Your anaesthetist will see you before the start of the operation and if you have any particular concerns you will have the opportunity to voice them then.

Insertion of the initial needle – this is a blind procedure and despite all precautions and best practice, damage can result in between 1 – 4 per 1,000 cases. The number will be higher in those that are particularly over weight or who have previous abdominal surgery. Complications might include:

• Bowel damage. This is the most common complication and usually occurs when there is bowel stuck to the abdominal wall, usually associated with previous surgery.
• Placing the needle into a blood vessel leading to gas being pumped into the blood system.
• Placing the needle into a blood vessel leading to damage to the vessel and bleeding.
• Damage to the urinary tract including the bladder.

These complications are usually recognised immediately and can be dealt with immediately, though sometimes requiring a large abdominal incision. Very rarely there could be unrecognised complications which would be identified should there be a failure of recovery from the procedure.

Book Laparoscopy Fertility Treatment appointment today

At IVF Chelsea we can provide a range of services and information, including Fertility Treatments, Laparoscopy Fertility Treatments, advice on Problems Conceiving and common Fertility Problems.

For more information or to book an appointment please contact us on 01494 892279 or at julian.norman-taylor@chelwest.nhs.uk.