Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy for Infertility
Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy are two minimally invasive surgical procedures commonly used in the evaluation and treatment of infertility. They provide valuable diagnostic information and therapeutic interventions.
Laparoscopy:
Laparoscopy involves the insertion of a thin, lighted instrument called a laparoscope through small incisions in the abdomen to visualize the pelvic organs. It provides a direct view of the reproductive organs, allowing for diagnosis and treatment of various conditions related to infertility. It helps your Gynaecologist through:
- Evaluation of pelvic pathology.
- Surgical interventions: Procedures like ovarian drilling for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adhesiolysis for pelvic adhesions, removal of ovarian cysts or fibroids, tubal repair, and treatment of endometriosis can be performed using laparoscopic techniques.
- Confirmation of tubal patency: Laparoscopy can help assess tubal patency by injecting a dye into the uterus and observing its flow through the fallopian tubes. This technique is called chromopertubation.
- Guided biopsies: Laparoscopy allows for the collection of tissue samples for histological examination, which can aid in the diagnosis of certain conditions affecting fertility, such as endometriosis or ovarian tumors.
Hysteroscopy:
Hysteroscopy involves the insertion of a thin, lighted instrument called a hysteroscope through the vagina into the uterus to examine its internal cavity. It is used to diagnose and treat various intrauterine abnormalities that can contribute to infertility. It helps your Gynaecologist through:
- Evaluation of uterine abnormalities
- Removal of intrauterine pathology: Procedures like polypectomy (removal of uterine polyps), myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids), lysis of adhesions, or resection of uterine septum can be performed hysteroscopically, improving the chances of successful conception.
- Endometrial sampling: Hysteroscopy allows for targeted biopsies of the endometrium to assess for endometrial abnormalities, such as chronic endometritis or endometrial hyperplasia, which can affect fertility.
- Uterine cavity assessment prior to assisted reproductive techniques: Hysteroscopy is often performed before in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive techniques to ensure optimal conditions within the uterine cavity.
Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy provide valuable diagnostic and therapeutic options for infertility by identifying and treating underlying conditions that may hinder conception. It is important to consult with your Gynaecologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan based on individual circumstances.