Endoscopic Surgeries: Hysteroscopy/Laparoscopy

What Are Endoscopic Surgeries?

Endoscopic surgeries are modern surgical procedures performed with the help of specialized cameras and surgical instruments, without the need for large surgical incisions into the body. In the field of obstetrics and gynecology, endoscopic surgeries offer significant advantages in both diagnostic and treatment processes. Thanks to these methods, patients experience less pain, have shorter hospital stays, and return to daily life much more quickly.

The main goal of endoscopic surgeries is to achieve maximum treatment success using minimally invasive techniques. Many conditions related to reproductive organs such as the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes can be treated safely and effectively with endoscopic methods. Compared to traditional open surgeries, these approaches provide clear advantages both aesthetically and in terms of recovery time.

The most commonly used endoscopic surgical methods in gynecology are hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. These two techniques target different anatomical areas and are performed for different purposes. However, both play a crucial role in protecting women’s health and supporting reproductive potential.

What Is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is an endoscopic surgical method that allows direct visualization of the inside of the uterus. During this procedure, a thin optical device equipped with a camera and light source is inserted through the vagina, passed through the cervix, and advanced into the uterus. This enables detailed examination of the uterine lining and clear identification of any pathological formations.

Because hysteroscopy does not require an incision, it prioritizes patient comfort. Since intrauterine structures are observed directly, diagnostic accuracy is very high. In cases where imaging methods such as ultrasound are insufficient, hysteroscopy provides the opportunity for a definitive diagnosis.

This method can be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. While diagnostic hysteroscopy evaluates the uterine cavity, operative hysteroscopy allows treatment of detected problems during the same session.

In Which Situations Is Hysteroscopy Performed?

Hysteroscopy is particularly preferred for the evaluation of problems originating within the uterine cavity. Irregular menstrual bleeding, excessive menstrual bleeding, and postmenopausal bleeding are among the most common indications for this method. Clearly identifying the underlying causes of such bleeding is essential for creating an effective treatment plan.

Hysteroscopy also plays an important role in women with infertility or a history of recurrent miscarriages. Uterine polyps, submucosal fibroids, adhesions, and congenital structural abnormalities can negatively affect the formation and continuation of pregnancy. With hysteroscopy, these issues can be clearly identified and treated.

Hysteroscopy is also frequently preferred before in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive treatments to evaluate the uterine cavity. A uterine structure suitable for embryo implantation is one of the key factors directly affecting treatment success.

Operative Hysteroscopy and Treatment Options

Operative hysteroscopy is a method that enables surgical treatment of pathological formations within the uterine cavity. During this procedure, special surgical instruments are introduced into the uterus through the hysteroscope to remove or correct problematic tissues.

Removal of uterine polyps, excision of submucosal fibroids, release of intrauterine adhesions, and correction of uterine septa can be performed with operative hysteroscopy. These procedures are carried out without the need for open surgery, offering patients a safer and more comfortable experience.

Operative hysteroscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the duration of the procedure varies depending on the intervention. Recovery is rapid, and most patients can be discharged on the same day.

What Is Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is an endoscopic surgical method used to evaluate and treat intra-abdominal organs. During this procedure, a camera and surgical instruments are inserted through a few small incisions made in the abdominal area. The camera projects high-resolution images of the internal organs onto a screen.

Since laparoscopy is performed through much smaller incisions compared to open surgery, it offers many advantages for patients. Less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery are among its main benefits.

In the field of gynecology, laparoscopy is widely used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It plays an important role especially in infertility investigations and in identifying the causes of pelvic pain.

In Which Situations Is Laparoscopy Preferred?

Laparoscopy is preferred for evaluating many conditions related to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus. Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic adhesions can be both diagnosed and treated using laparoscopy.

In patients with unexplained chronic pelvic pain, laparoscopy is an effective method for clarifying the source of pain. It also allows detailed examination of tubal patency and pelvic anatomy during infertility assessments.

Laparoscopy can also be safely used in the surgical treatment of fibroids, cysts, and certain uterine anomalies.

Operative Laparoscopy and Areas of Application

Operative laparoscopy goes beyond diagnosis by offering surgical treatment options. During this procedure, pathological tissues within the abdomen can be removed or corrected using laparoscopic instruments.

Removal of ovarian cysts, excision of endometriosis lesions, removal of fibroids, and treatment of ectopic pregnancy can be performed with operative laparoscopy. During these procedures, damage to surrounding tissues is kept to a minimum.

Recovery after operative laparoscopy is generally rapid. Patients can usually return to their daily activities within a few days, and the risk of surgery-related complications is lower compared to open procedures.

Differences Between Hysteroscopy and Laparoscopy

Although hysteroscopy and laparoscopy are both endoscopic surgical methods, they target different anatomical areas. Hysteroscopy evaluates the inside of the uterus, whereas laparoscopy examines intra-abdominal organs.

Hysteroscopy is performed via the vaginal route and does not require incisions, while laparoscopy is carried out through small incisions made in the abdominal area. Therefore, hysteroscopy is generally a shorter and less invasive procedure.

Both methods are extremely safe and effective when applied to the right patients by experienced physicians. The choice of method depends on the patient’s symptoms and clinical findings.

Advantages of Endoscopic Surgeries

The most important advantage of endoscopic surgeries is their minimally invasive nature. Since large surgical incisions are not required, the risk of infection is reduced, postoperative pain is less, and the recovery process is faster.

The ability to provide both diagnosis and treatment in the same session reduces the need for repeat surgeries. This significantly improves patient comfort both physically and psychologically.

Preservation of uterine and ovarian tissues is especially important in women of reproductive age. Endoscopic surgeries contribute to maintaining fertility by minimizing damage to these tissues.

Recovery Process After Endoscopic Surgeries

The recovery process after endoscopic surgeries is generally fast and uncomplicated. Mild pain, bloating, or spotting-type bleeding may be observed after the procedure. These symptoms usually resolve on their own in a short time.

Regular use of medications prescribed by the physician and adherence to follow-up appointments positively affect the healing process. Heavy physical activities and sexual intercourse may be postponed for a certain period.

Hysteroscopy and laparoscopy are among the safe and effective surgical methods offered by modern medicine. When performed with the correct indications and by experienced specialists, they provide successful outcomes in both diagnosis and treatment.