LAVH

What is a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the uterus. While traditional hysterectomies use a large incision across the abdomen, a vaginal hysterectomy removes the uterus through a much smaller cut in the vagina.

During a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy, Dr. Tajzoy makes another small incision near your belly button. He uses this incision to insert a long, thin instrument called a laparoscope.

The laparoscope has a light and camera at the end, which projects images of the inside of your body onto a screen. This allows Dr. Tajzoy to see your organs and guide miniature surgical tools to the proper location.

When would I need a LAVH procedure?

Dr. Tajzoy may recommend LAVH or another type of minimally invasive hysterectomy to relieve the severe symptoms of a gynecologic condition that doesn’t improve with conservative treatment. Common women’s health problems that may require a hysterectomy include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Uterine prolapse
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Chronic pelvic pain

Sometimes, LAVH is an appropriate treatment for women with cervical or endometrial cancer. However, an abdominal hysterectomy is a more common treatment for ovarian cancer.

What are the benefits of a LAVH procedure?

Similar to other types of minimally invasive hysterectomy, LAVH offers numerous advantages over open surgery. Benefits of LAVH include:

• No visible scar
• Less pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery time

Minimally invasive hysterectomies are just as effective as open surgery in reducing pain and relieving symptoms of gynecologic conditions.

What should I expect from a LAVH procedure?

First, Dr. Tajzoy performs a thorough physical and pelvic exam and reviews your medical history to make sure LAVH is right for you.

The procedure takes place at the hospital and under general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep. Dr. Tajzoy makes a small incision, about the size of a buttonhole, in your abdomen to insert the laparoscope. He uses the laparoscope to view your internal organs and makes a small cut in your vagina to remove the uterus.

Afterward, you may be able to go home the same day, or you may need to spend one to three days in the hospital. Dr. Tajzoy provides you with information on how to take care of yourself at home to ensure the best recovery.

To find out if LAVH is right for you, call the office of Emil Tajzoy, MD, or book an appointment online today.