Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH)

LAVH combines laparoscopy and hysterectomy. Laparoscopy is used to look into the abdomen at the reproductive organs. Hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus.

The uterus can be removed in two ways. When it is removed through a large cut (incision) in the abdomen, the procedure is called an abdominal hysterectomy (the past).

 

LAVH involves the use of a small, telescope-like device called a laparoscope. The laparoscope is inserted into the abdomen through a small cut. It brings light into the abdomen so that doctor can see inside. Tiny instruments are also inserted to perform the procedure. Ligaments that support the uterus are cut with these instruments, and the uterus is removed vaginally.

A Laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy is recommended in cases where there is the development of Fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis or a possible overgrowth of any tissue in the uterus lining.

 

Hysterectomy may be offered as a treatment option for problems with the uterus. Following are reasons to perform LAVH:

  • Adhesions :  Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can cause the pelvic organs to stick together. They may occur in the abdomen because of past surgeries or pelvic infection.
  • Endometriosis :  In this condition, patches of tissue that normally line the uterus grow outside the uterus and become attached to other pelvic organs. This may lead to cysts and severe adhesions.
  • Fibroids : Fibroids are benign (not cancer) growths on the uterus. If they are large, they can make it hard for your doctor to remove the uterus through the vagina. 
  • Salpingo-oophorectomy : If the ovaries and fallopian tubes also are removed during hysterectomy, it is called salpingo-oophorectomy. Removing the tubes and ovaries through the vagina may be difficult, but a laparoscope can help.