Surgical Options for Endometriosis Relief
Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity. It affects millions of women worldwide and can significantly impact daily life and fertility. If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or suspect you might have it, understanding your surgical options is important. Dr Kelly Hankins in Gosford offers modern treatments, including robotic gynaecology surgery, designed to provide greater relief.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis lesions commonly grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and sometimes beyond. These lesions respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, scarring, and pain.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Painful periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Fatigue and digestive symptoms
Why Consider Surgery?
While medication can help manage symptoms, surgery is often needed to remove endometriosis tissue, relieve pain, and improve fertility. The goal is to excise or ablate lesions with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Types of Surgery Available
- Laparoscopic Surgery
The most common surgical approach is laparoscopy, which uses small incisions and a camera to visualise and remove endometriosis tissue. This minimally invasive method allows for quicker recovery and less post-operative pain. - Robotic Gynaecology Surgery
Robotic-assisted surgery represents an evolution in laparoscopy. It provides the surgeon with enhanced precision, flexibility, and control using robotic arms. For complex or deeply infiltrating endometriosis, robotic surgery can improve surgical outcomes and reduce risks. - Hysterectomy
In severe cases where other treatments fail, removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) may be recommended. While this can be definitive for endometriosis symptoms, it is usually considered a last resort, especially for women wishing to preserve fertility.
What to Expect From Surgery and Recovery
- Hospital Stay: Most laparoscopic and robotic surgeries are performed as day surgeries or require a short hospital stay.
- Recovery: Patients usually return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks after minimally invasive surgery, although individual recovery varies.
- Pain Management: Pain-relief medications are prescribed, and post-operative discomfort is generally mild compared to pre-surgery symptoms; however, pain and recovery experiences vary between individuals.
Impact on Fertility
Surgical treatment of endometriosis can improve fertility outcomes, especially when adhesions and cysts are removed. However, fertility preservation discussions should happen before surgery if pregnancy is a priority.
Endometriosis can be a challenging condition, but advances in gynaecological surgery offer hope for significant relief. Dr Kelly Hankins in Gosford is dedicated to providing personalised, modern surgical care to help you regain comfort and control over your health.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. All medical procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals. Always seek the advice of your GP, specialist, or another appropriately qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Where further or specialised care is required, your treating practitioner can provide an appropriate referral.