Methods of Reproductive Surgery
The goal of reproductive surgery is to help women maintain or regain their reproductive function.Women whose reproductive ability is affected by congenital conditions, acquired conditions or a tubal ligation procedure can correct the problem through surgery. There are several methods of reproductive surgery used today and many are minimally invasive procedures that can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Conditions Treated By Reproductive Surgery
Reproductive surgery is used to treat gynecological conditions causing either infertility or complications affecting pregnancy, as well as to reverse the effects of tubal ligation (commonly known as “having your tubes tied”).
These conditions include:
- Acquired or congenital abnormalities
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic adhesions (scar tissue buildup)
- Tubal damage
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
Procedures Used
Most reproductive surgical procedures are minimally invasive and do not require patients to be kept in the hospital overnight:
- Hysteroscopy – A surgeon uses a fiber optic telescope to diagnose and treat conditions in the uterine cavity
- Laparoscopy – A surgeon uses a telescope to diagnose and treat conditions in the pelvic area, as well as to perform tubal fertility surgery
- Mini-laparotomy – A less invasive version of a laparotomy which requires a small incision above the pubic bone to diagnose and treat pelvic area conditions
Laparotomy, in which a surgeon uses an incision made in the lower abdomen to diagnose and treat pelvic area conditions, is a more invasive procedure and does require a hospital stay of several days.
What to Expect During Reproductive Surgery
With advances in modern medicine and robotic technology, patients recovering from reproductive surgery are now more likely to experience faster recovery periods with fewer complications from blood loss, scarring and post-surgical pain. Many patients are able to go home on the same day and return to normal activities fairly quickly. Of course, there are risks involved with all surgical procedures. Anesthetic complications and post-surgery infection, among other things, can arise.
At Tampa General Hospital, women undergoing any of these procedures will be expertly treated by our world-class team of reproductive surgeons and gynecologic specialists.