Using robotics to treat pelvic adhesions is safer than other laparoscopic surgical techniques
Robotic surgery requires a greater number and size of incisions without minimizing risks or increased improvement in the outcome
What is resection of pelvic adhesions?
Pelvic adhesions are scar tissue. This scar tissue can grow between two organs in the pelvic area and cause significant pelvic pain. Resection of pelvic adhesions means the removal of this scar tissue.
Why would a woman need to undergo resection of pelvic adhesions?
Pelvic adhesions are treated if they are causing aggravating symptoms, such as infertility, pain or gastrointestinal problems (bloating and constipation).
What are the major risks associated with resection of pelvic adhesions?
Like any surgical procedure, resection of pelvic adhesions is associated with certain risks such as excessive blood loss and an infection requiring antibiotic treatment. Additionally, women should be proactive in selecting a surgeon who has had advanced training and experience in this type of procedure, as inexperienced surgeons may experience complications such as:
- Higher risk of needing to convert to an open, more invasive procedure with larger incisions and longer recovery times
- Increased risk of injury to bladder, bowel and ureter (part of the urinary tract)
- Heightened risk of additional scarring (adhesions)
What happens during the procedure?
Laparoscopic resection of pelvic adhesions is the preferred method due to less pain, faster recovery, and less risk of new adhesions compared to open surgery.
Using two small incisions, the surgeon will remove the scar tissue that has developed between the pelvic organs.
DualPortGYN for pelvic adhesions is an innovative GYN surgical technique developed by surgeons at The Center for Innovative GYN Care that uses only two, 5 millimeter incisions. One incision is placed at the belly button and the other is at the bikini line. With these incisions, most GYN procedures can be performed safely in less than one hour.
How does DualPortGYN work?
- Clearer view and fewer complications – DualPortGYN uses a technique known as retroperitoneal dissection (RPD), originally developed to remove cancerous tissue. By going behind (retro) the lining (peritoneal), the surgeon completely visualizes all of the anatomy of the pelvis, and avoids complications such as excessive bleeding, bladder injury, injury to the ureter and bladder. RPD allows surgeons to map the organs and arteries in the pelvis, much like a GPS system, reducing the time of the procedure and avoiding injury to the pelvic structures.
- More convenience – In many situations, the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis allowing patients to go home the same day and return to most normal activity in approximately one week.
How long is recovery?
Recovery is dependent on the extent of the adhesions treated and the type of surgery – whether it is open abdominal or laparoscopic.
What should I ask my doctor or OB-GYN if he/she recommends resection of my pelvic adhesions?
Before undergoing surgery, you will likely have many questions for your doctor or OB-GYN. Below are some recommended questions to ask – and background information to help you weigh the answers. You can also download a printable version of these questions.
Women need to be their own best advocate, which is why getting a second opinion is always good practice. Since there are different surgical options for treating pelvic adhesions, getting a second opinion is a way you can ask questions about how the surgery will be performed, the recovery time, and possible complications.