Laparoscopy for Diagnosis of Endometriosis
While some women who have endometriosis can remain asymptomatic, the reality is that a higher percentage of individuals will begin to notice nagging discomfort and pain that worsens over time, as uterine cells continue their migration away from where they belong, in the uterus, and grow and adhere to other regions of the body. Over time, the condition can progress to the point where the person is suffering a noticeably diminished quality of life, is fatigued, in pain, and made infertile.
Laparoscopy for diagnosis of endometriosis has been perfected over the years and is an effective, relatively non-invasive way to determine the true extent of what are called endometriosis implants (abnormal tissue growths outside the uterus). Being able to see into the body and locate the endometriosis implants is crucial to accurate diagnosis and successful treatment.
When used as a diagnostic tool, laparoscopy is considered a minor procedure with a fast recovery time. Performed under general anesthesia, laparoscopy for diagnosis of endometriosis is a form of "key-hole" surgery that can, with great precision, generate clear snapshots of the stage of endometriosis under investigation. Most patients go home the day of the procedure, unless an overnight stay is preferred or indicated for post-surgery monitoring.
The patient's abdomen is first inflated with carbon dioxide via a tiny incision near the navel. The slender laparoscopic "camera" is then gently inserted into the abdominal cavity, where it can provide an immediate picture of what is happening in both the abdomen and pelvis. Once the doctor has obtained the necessary images, the scope may be carefully removed, the gas is released, and a few small stitches are all that is needed to close the incision. If endometriosis is identified during laparoscopy, the endometriosis lesions can usually be treated immediately without significantly prolonging the patient’s recovery.
In order to obtain the correct diagnosis of endometriosis, some experienced endometriosis surgeons will be able to visually identify the lesions. Some endometriosis surgeons also take biopsies (tissue samples) of suspected endometrial growths. Those tissues can then be examined under a microscope to confirm diagnosis and start the patient on the road to treatment and, in turn, relief of symptoms.
For more information on laparoscopy for diagnosis of endometriosis, contact Dr. Eric Daiter at www.drericdaitermd.com. He and his team of caring and knowledge professionals will review your case and provide you with a tailored treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, budget and work commitments. If you would like to read more about diagnosing endometriosis and possibly download your free copy of our Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Endometriosis please visit us at http://www.drericdaitermd.com/laparoscopy-for-diagnosis-of-endometriosis-0