Definition
Ablation is a procedure that destroys tissue. This process destroys tissue of the uterus that grows outside the uterus.
Laparoscopy is a type of surgery. It uses special tools and small cuts to decrease recovery time.
Reasons for Procedure
This ablation is done to ease problems caused by endometriosis. Uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus, often in belly. It can cause scarring, pain, or problems with how other organs work.
Ablation destroys the excess tissue and scars which may ease problems.
Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will go over some possible problems such as:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Damage to nearby structures
- Needing more procedures
The risk of problems is higher if you:
- Smoke
- Drink
- Have long-term diseases such as diabetes or obesity
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Leading up to the procedure:
- Talk to your doctor about the medicines you take. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to 1 week in advance.
- Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.
- Clean out your bowels with a prep the night before the procedure if your doctor wants you to.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia is used. You will be asleep during the procedure.
Description of Procedure
Small cuts are made in the belly. The belly is filled with air to make more space for the doctor to work. Small tubes with tools are placed through the cuts. One tube has a camera that sends images to a screen in the room. The doctor will use it to check the area and remove patches. A laser, electric current, gas, or other method will be used to burn off the patches.
When tissue is treated, the cuts may be closed with stitches. A bandage will cover the cuts.
Immediately After Procedure
How Long Will It Take?
About 1 hour. It may be longer depending on how much tissue is treated.
How Much Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. You will have pain for a few days after. Medicine will help ease pain.
Post-procedure Care
The care staff will help to manage pain and watch for problems. You will be able to leave a few hours after the procedure if you do not have problems.
During your stay, the care staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:
- Washing their hands
- Wearing gloves or masks
- Keeping your incisions covered
There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:
- Washing your hands often and reminding your care staff to do the same
- Reminding your care staff to wear gloves or masks
- Not allowing others to touch your incisions
It will be hard to move around for a few days. Activity will be limited while you recover.
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if any of these occur:
- Signs of infection such as fever or chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or drainage from the incisions
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting
- Swelling, redness, or pain in your leg
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES
Office on Women’s Health https://www.womenshealth.gov
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists https://www.acog.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada https://www.sogc.org
Women’s Health Matters—Women’s College Hospital https://www.womenshealthmatters.ca
References
Endometriosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115220/Endometriosis . Updated June 18, 2019. Accessed June 28, 2019.
National Guideline Alliance (UK). Endometriosis: diagnosis and management. London: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (UK); 2017. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng73/evidence/full-guideline-pdf-4550371315.
Surgery. Endometriosis.org website. Available at: http://endometriosis.org/treatments/endometriosis-surgery. Accessed June 28, 2019.
Surgical treatment of endometriosis: Excision and destruction. Brigham and Women’s Hospital website. Available at: https://www.brighamandwomens.org/obgyn/infertility-reproductive-surgery/endometriosis/surgical-treatment-of-endometriosis-excision-and-destruction. Accessed June 28, 2019.
Treatment. NHS website. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/endometriosis/treatment. Updated January 18, 2019. Accessed June 28, 2019.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Elliot M. Levine, MD, FACOG
- Review Date: 05/2020