Laproscopy & Hysteroscopy

A laproscope is an instrument which allows the pelvic organs to be inspected under direct vision.

The procedure will require your admission to hospital and is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. A tiny incision is made just below the umbilicus ( navel) and three litres or so of carbon dioxide are introduced to distend the abdominal cavity. This separates the bowel from the abdominal wall so that the laproscope can be inserted safely. The laproscope is then connected to a powerful light source, which allows the surgeon to look inside the abdomen and directly examine the pelvic organs. A second, smaller incision is made just below the pubic hairline and special pair of forceps are inserted through it. Both incisions are so small that once they have healed they are virtually invisible.

The surgeon inspects the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and pelvic walls very carefully. Any scar tissue, adhesions and endometriosis and fibroids will be noted. The ovaries are inspected for signs of ovulation and the presence of cysts. The mobility of the fallopian tubes and ovaries can be assessed by using the pair of forceps inserted just below the hairline. Tubal patency is then tested by injecting Methylene blue dye into the uterus. It is then possible to see whether the dye enters the fallopian tubes, how quickly it flows through then and whether it spills out to them easily.

The need for further surgery can be determined after the laproscopy. Most patients are able to leave hospital the same day. Some may have to stay overnight if they were operated on late in the afternoon or are still sleepy due to the anaesthetic.

Hysteroscopy uses a hysteroscope, which is a thin telescope that is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. During diagnostic hysteroscopy the hysteroscope is used just to observe the endometrial cavity (inside of the uterus.) During operative hysteroscopy a type of hysteroscope is used that has channels in which it is possible to insert very thin instruments. These instruments can be used to remove polyps, to cut adhesions, and do other procedures.

A laproscopy and/or a Hysteroscopy technique are used as diagnostic tools for infertility in women