A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the female uterus. There are many surgical options available for women who are considering a hysterectomy. A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves making several small incisions within the abdomen or vagina through which the uterus is removed. A laparoscope is a thin, flexible tube that allows your surgeon to view your internal organs and tissues through a tiny camera that is mounted on the tube. It is important that you discuss the potential for side effects with your doctor prior to undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Pain
After a woman has a laparoscopic hysterectomy, she may experience moderate to severe pain within the vagina or abdomen as a result of the surgical procedure. Such symptoms are normal and will resolve as the body begins to heal. Pain medication can be prescribed to help alleviate these symptoms.
Bleeding
A laparoscopic hysterectomy may cause excessive bleeding during or after surgery. Excessive bleeding may cause the patient to feel lightheaded or fatigued, which requires immediate medical attention. Depending on the extent of the bleeding, this condition may necessitate a blood transfusion or a second surgery to be fully resolved.
Infection
Although rare, a woman may develop an infection following a laparoscopic hysterectomy. The infection may occur within the abdomen, pelvis, bladder or lungs. A patient may also develop an infection at the site of the abdominal incisions. Symptoms of infection may include fever, pain or skin inflammation or irritation. A course of antibiotic medication may be necessary to treat such an infection.
Bladder or Bowel Damage
The Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals' Department of Gynaecology estimates that approximately 1 in every 50 women who undergo a laparoscopic hysterectomy sustain some form of bladder damage. Damage to the bladder or bowel during surgery may interfere with the patient's ability to pass urine or stool. Depending upon the extent of damage, a second surgical procedure may be necessary to repair the bladder or bowel.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
A laparoscopic hysterectomy increases a woman's risk of developing blood clots within the deep veins of the legs, a condition called "deep-vein thrombosis." Blood clots can detach from the vein within the leg and possibly flow into the lungs. If this occurs, the patient is at risk of developing a life-threatening condition called a "pulmonary embolism." The doctor will provide the patient with medication prior to surgery to help prevent the formation of blood clots.
