Dr. Ioannis K. Raptis is an accredited surgeon (MIC II) for performing advanced laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures, certified by the German Society for Gynecological Endoscopy (AGE). In cases requiring intracorporeal tissue morcellation, an innovative closed-bag system is used to ensure patient safety in the event of malignancy (contained morcellation).
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Fibroids are benign tumors that develop on the wall of the uterus, mainly in women of reproductive age. These tumors often grow gradually. However, in some cases, they may appear suddenly.
Fibroids are classified into three categories based on their location in the uterus: subserosal, intramural, and submucosal. Subserosal fibroids are those whose majority is located outside the wall of the uterus. Those fibroids that are primarily found within the wall are called intramural. Finally, submucosal fibroids appear within the cavity of the uterus.
The discomforts and complications caused by fibroids depend on their size, number, and location in the uterus. The most common symptoms of fibroids include:
It is important to mention that some fibroids may, in rare cases, be malignant. The probability of this has been estimated at 1 in 300.
When the removal of fibroids is required, laparoscopic myomectomy stands out as the safest and most effective method of treatment.
The endoscopic, radical removal of fibroids without the destruction of healthy tissues not only relieves women from the symptoms of the condition but also restores the proper anatomy of the uterus without the risks of complications related to conventional incision surgeries (such as bleeding, infection, healing disorders, etc.). Simultaneously, the aesthetic outcome is excellent, as the incisions created for the surgeon to access the abdomen are minimal.
Finally, laparoscopy presents advantages during the postoperative period, where pain is minimal, mobilization is immediate, and the recovery time does not exceed 24 hours.
For the successful implementation of laparoscopic fibroid removal, patients are requested to undergo an ultrasound and, in some cases, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The results of these examinations are pivotal, as they allow the surgeon to determine the precise position of the fibroids which are about to be removed. At the same time, an assessment is made regarding the probability of a fibroid being malignant.
Laparoscopy is a procedure with minimal burden on a patient’s body, especially compared to open abdominal surgery. This fact explains why recovery after laparoscopic surgery is quick and relatively painless. The pain experienced by the patient when she wakes up is minimal, mobility is immediate, and within just 24 hours, she can return to her daily routine. In many cases, hospitalization is not demanded.
Care for the incisions is simple and involves sterilization with a special antiseptic twice a day. Special adhesive gauze is not necessary and the patient can have a bath, too.
Finally, activities with intense physical strain (such as gym workouts, manual labor, etc.) should be avoided for 2-3 days in order for abdominal pain to be prevented.
