SURGICAL INSTRUCTIONS
SCHEDULING YOUR SURGERY
If you need to schedule surgery, please call our office at (240) 912-4546 to speak to our surgery scheduler. We are happy to answer your questions and assist you in scheduling your surgery.
LAPAROSCOPY
Laparoscopy is a minimally-invasive surgery that uses a thin, lighted tube put through a cut (incision) in the belly to look at the female pelvic organs . Laparoscopy is used to find and remove problems such as ovarian cysts, adhesions (scar tissue), fibroids, and endometriosis. Tissue samples can be taken for biopsy. Because laparoscopy is a less-invasive form of surgery, it is associated with less pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.
LAPAROTOMY
A laparotomy is a surgical procedure involving an incision through the abdominal wall to gain access into the abdominal cavity and female pelvis. It is often required when a very large pelvic mass (ex. ovarian cyst or large fibroids) needs to be removed. Depending on the anatomy, the procedure can often be performed through a mini-laparotomy, which is a small 2-3 inch incision. Most patients spend 1-2 nights in the hospital after a laparotomy, and it can take up to 6 weeks for complete healing.
HYSTEROSCOPY
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows visualization of the inside of the uterus in order to diagnose and treat causes of abnormal bleeding. Hysteroscopy is done using a hysteroscope, a thin, lighted tube that is inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix and inside of the uterus. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia (numbing of the cervix) or under IV sedation (twilight).