During a laparoscopic hysterectomy, a surgeon makes several small incisions within a woman's lower abdomen or vagina through which her uterus is removed in small pieces. Unlike an open abdominal hysterectomy, laparoscopic hysterectomy typically allows for a shorter hospital stay, less blood loss and a decreased risk of infection, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports. Women should consult a physician to discuss the potential complications after laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery.
Urinary Tract Damage
Women who undergo laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery are at an increased risk of sustaining damage to the urinary tract as a complication of this procedure. Urinary tract damage can make it difficult for a woman to empty her bladder normally, which can lead to urinary retention or urinary tract infection problems. Approximately half of women who undergo a hysterectomy develop urinary tract infections, University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Urinary tract infections resulting from urinary tract damage are typically temporary and can be treated with antibiotics. Minor injury to the urinary tract generally resolves without further treatment, though women who sustain significant urinary tract damage after laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery may require additional surgery.
Bowel Injury
Gynecological laparoscopic surgery increases a woman's risk of experiencing bowel injury, UpToDate explains. A bowel injury can cause intestinal inflammation, which can make it difficult for an affected woman to produce a normal bowel movement. Constipation complications after laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery can be uncomfortable and may be accompanied by abdominal cramping or bloating. Women who develop constipation complications may be temporarily prescribed a laxative or stool softener to help alleviate uncomfortable bowel movements.
Bleeding, Infection or Blood Clots
Laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery can result in bleeding, infection or blood clot complications in treated women, the Cleveland Clinic warns. Excessive bleeding during or following this type of surgery is rare. Affected women can require additional surgery or a blood transfusion to resolve this complication. Infection complications, such as high fever or pain, should be reported to a medical professional immediately as additional antibiotic medication is typically necessary to resolve infection symptoms. Women who undergo gynecological surgery are also at risk of developing blood clots within the legs or lungs after surgery. A blood clot can disrupt the flow of blood to a woman's heart, lungs or brain, which can cause life-threatening medical complications. Unusual leg pain or swelling can be a sign of a blood clot in women after laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery and affected women should promptly contact a doctor for further evaluation and care.
