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Laparoscopically
Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy [LAVH]
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LAVH combines
laparoscopy and hysterectomy. Laparoscopy is used to look into the abdomen at
the reproductive organs. Hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus.
What Is LAVH?
LAVH is a special form of hysterectomy - removal of
the uterus. The uterus is a reproductive organ in the lower abdomen.
The
uterus can be removed in two ways. When it is removed through a cut (incision)
in the abdomen, the procedure is called an abdominal hysterectomy. When it is
removed through the vagina, it is called a vaginal hysterectomy.
LAVH
involves the use of a small, telescope-like device called a laparoscope. The laparoscope
is inserted into the abdomen through a small cut. It brings light into the abdomen
so that your doctor can see inside.
The laparoscope also can be used
before hysterectomy to look at the pelvic organs to help your doctor see what
conditions are present.
Reasons for LAVH
Hysterectomy may
be offered as a treatment option for problems with the uterus.
Following
are reasons to perform LAVH:
Following are reasons to perform
LAVH:
-
Adhesions
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Salpingo-oophorectomy.
If the ovaries and fallopian tubes also are removed during hysterectomy, it is
called salpingo-oophorectomy.
The
Procedure
Before LAVH, certain steps will be taken to prepare you for
the procedure: -
Your pelvic area and abdomen may be shaved.
-
You will be given an intravenous (IV) line.
- You
will be given anesthesia (pain relief). You will not be awake during the surgery.
In
some cases, an abdominal hysterectomy may be required if an LAVH could not be
done.
Benefits
The main reason for LAVH is to allow the
uterus to be removed safely through the vagina if a standard vaginal hysterectomy
cannot be done. Risks
There are some risks that may occur with any surgery. These may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Problems
from the anesthesia
- Blood
clots in the veins or lungs
- Death
(rare)
LAVH can take longer than other types of hysterectomy. This means that you may
need more anesthesia than you would with other forms of hysterectomy.
After Surgery
Hysterectomy is major surgery, no matter how it is done.
You will have some pain. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days.
After you leave the hospital, you will need to rest and take care of
yourself.
Make sure you know the warning signs of a problem. Contact
your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Fever
or chills
-
Heavy bleeding or vaginal discharge
-
Severe pain
-
Redness or discharge from the abdominal cuts
-
Problem with urination or bowel movements
- Shortness
of breath or chest pain
Finally …
If you have problems with your uterus, you and your doctor
may decide that a hysterectomy is the best treatment. LAVH may be an option.
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