What types of minimally invasive procedures are available?
Dr. Chadi Haddad offers several minimally invasive surgical procedures to target a variety of gynecological concerns, including abnormal bleeding, vaginal pain, and urinary incontinence. Options include:
- Hysteroscopy
- Endometrial ablation
- LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure)
- Outpatient hysterectomy
Minimally invasive surgeries require a shorter amount of recovery time compared to in-hospital surgeries. In most cases, you’re able to continue with your day right after your procedure.
What is a hysteroscopy?
If you suffer from gynecological problems, like abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain, you may need to undergo a test to diagnose the cause. This test is called a hysteroscopy, and is an in-office procedure where a scope is inserted into your vagina to evaluate the uterus and cervix.
Sometimes, the hysteroscopy is just used as a diagnostic tool. In other cases, the hysteroscopy is used during a surgical procedure to correct minor gynecological problems, including:
- Polyps and fibroids
- Adhesions
- Septums
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Diagnostic hysteroscopies generally aren’t too painful, although you can take ibuprofen or another painkiller before the procedure if you’re sensitive to discomfort. If you’re undergoing a hysteroscopy as a surgical procedure, your doctor administers local anesthetic for your maximum comfort.
What is LEEP?
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure, or LEEP, is a procedure you might get if you’ve had an abnormal Pap smear or pelvic exam. LEEP is a preventive procedure that uses heat to remove abnormal cells in the uterus, including:
- Pre-cancerous cells
- Polyps
- Genital warts
During the procedure, you undergo local anesthesia to manage discomfort during the procedure. After your doctor removes any abnormal cells, the cells are tested to confirm the need for further treatment.
What is endometrial ablation?
Your doctor may recommend endometrial ablation if you have abnormal vaginal bleeding, including:
- Off-cycle bleeding
- Heavy periods
- Anemia
Endometrial ablation aims to reduce the lining of your uterus. Common techniques for endometrial ablation include:
- Cooling techniques
- Heating techniques
- Microwave energy
- Radiofrequency
Endometrial ablation isn’t recommended if you’re planning on becoming pregnant or want to be pregnant in the future.
What is an outpatient hysterectomy?
A minimally invasive outpatient hysterectomy utilizes a laparoscopy (a tiny telescope-like camera) and small surgical instruments inserted through small incisions in your pelvic area to remove your uterus entirely. You may require a hysterectomy if you’re suffering from:
- Endometriosis
- Recurring and painful fibroids
- Uterine prolapse
- Cancer
Though minimally invasive outpatient hysterectomy procedures come with reduced pain and scarring, and a shorter recovery time, there are risks. You should always be prepared for the possibility of open surgery should complications arise.
Dr. Chadi Haddad is extremely committed to providing superior patient care. Call or click today to book your appointment.
