Laparoscopic Fibroidectomy

1. What is Laparoscopic Fibroidectomy?

Laparoscopic fibroidectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths of the uterus) through small abdominal incisions using a camera and specialised surgical instruments.

The procedure aims to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.

2. When is Surgery Recommended?

Laparoscopic fibroidectomy may be recommended when fibroids cause:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Anaemia due to heavy bleeding
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty becoming pregnant in selected cases
• Recurrent pregnancy problems in selected cases
• Significant increase in fibroid size

The appropriate treatment depends on the size, number and location of the fibroids, symptoms and future pregnancy plans.

3. What Symptoms May Occur?

Some fibroids cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Prolonged periods
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Abdominal enlargement
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Backache
• Difficulty with fertility in selected cases

4. What Does the Procedure Involve?

The general treatment process includes:

Gynaecological evaluation → Ultrasound/MRI review → Preoperative assessment → General anaesthesia → Laparoscopic fibroid removal → Uterine repair → Recovery and follow-up

Small abdominal incisions are used to introduce the laparoscope and specialised instruments for fibroid removal and repair of the uterine muscle.

5. What Treatment Options Are Available?

Depending on the fibroids and individual circumstances, treatment options may include:

• Observation for selected asymptomatic fibroids
• Medicines to control symptoms
• Laparoscopic fibroidectomy
• Hysteroscopic fibroid removal for suitable fibroids
• Open abdominal myomectomy for selected large or complex fibroids
• Other procedures depending on the patient's condition and future fertility plans

The gynaecologist recommends the most appropriate approach after reviewing imaging.

6. How Long Does Surgery and Recovery Take?

The procedure commonly takes approximately 1–3 hours, although complex cases may take longer.

Typical recovery may include:

• Hospital stay: often 1–3 days
• Initial recovery: approximately 1–2 weeks
• Return to normal activities: often within 2–4 weeks

Recovery varies depending on the number and size of fibroids removed.

7. What Are the Expected Benefits and Outcomes?

Laparoscopic fibroidectomy may help:

• Reduce heavy menstrual bleeding
• Relieve pelvic pain and pressure
• Improve symptoms related to large fibroids
• Preserve the uterus
• Support future pregnancy plans in appropriately selected patients

The effect on fertility depends on several factors, including the fibroid location and other reproductive conditions.

8. What Are the Risks or Considerations?

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding and possible need for blood transfusion
• Infection
• Injury to nearby organs
• Adhesion formation
• Recurrence of fibroids
• Need to convert to open surgery in selected cases
• Rare need for hysterectomy in an emergency situation

The individual risks depend on the size, number and location of the fibroids.

9. Why Consider Treatment in India?

India has specialised gynaecology centres offering:

• Advanced pelvic imaging
• Experienced laparoscopic gynaecological surgeons
• Minimally invasive fibroid surgery
• Fertility-preserving treatment approaches
• Comprehensive postoperative care

10. How Can Medavelle Help and What Should the Patient Do Next?

Medavelle can assist with:

Medical-record review → Gynaecologist coordination → Hospital selection → Treatment planning → Cost estimation → International patient arrangements.

Next step: Share pelvic ultrasound/MRI & gynaecology reports → Specialist evaluation → Surgical planning → Laparoscopic fibroidectomy → Recovery → Follow-up.