Minimally Invasive Surgery
Modern gynaecological and obstetric surgery has advanced considerably in recent decades, allowing many procedures to be performed using minimally invasive techniques.
At Monash Obstetrics, our gynaecology specialists are highly experienced in laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, offering patients safer, more precise operations with faster recovery and minimal disruption to daily life.
Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialised instruments to access the pelvic organs. This approach results in less pain, reduced scarring, lower infection risk, and a quicker return to normal activity compared to traditional open surgery.
Our team of consultant obstetricians and gynaecologists performs a wide range of minimally invasive procedures for both gynaecological and fertility-related conditions, including endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, pelvic pain, and uterine abnormalities.
What Is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery involves inserting a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) and fine surgical instruments through small incisions – usually less than one centimetre – in the abdomen. The surgeon views the pelvic organs on a high-definition screen, allowing precise visualisation and treatment.
This approach is suitable for many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including:
- Investigation of infertility or pelvic pain
- Removal of endometriosis deposits or adhesions
- Ovarian cystectomy (removal of cysts)
- Myomectomy (removal of fibroids)
- Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
- Treatment of ectopic pregnancy
Laparoscopic procedures are performed under general anaesthesia and typically require only a short hospital stay. Most patients return to work and light activity within one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Minimally Invasive Surgery
Endometriosis
- Overview: Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. It affects around 1-in-9 Australian women before age 44.
- Symptoms: Pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, bowel or bladder discomfort, and difficulty conceiving.
- Treatment: Laparoscopic surgery allows the direct visualisation and removal (excision) of endometrial tissue, adhesions and cysts (endometriomas). This is the gold-standard treatment for moderate to severe endometriosis and is associated with improved pain control and fertility outcomes.
Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)
- Overview: Fibroids are benign growths of the uterine muscle, affecting up to 70% of women by age 50.
- Symptoms: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, urinary frequency, and infertility.
- Treatment:
Laparoscopic myomectomy: Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, ideal for women wishing to retain fertility.
Both techniques reduce hospital stay and recovery time compared with traditional open surgery.
Ovarian Cysts and Masses
- Overview: Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may develop as part of the menstrual cycle or from conditions like endometriosis.
- Symptoms: Pelvic pain, bloating, and sometimes torsion (twisting) of the ovary.
- Treatment: Laparoscopic cystectomy allows removal of the cyst while preserving healthy ovarian tissue, supporting future fertility.
Pelvic Adhesions
- Overview: Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form after infection, inflammation, or surgery, leading to pain or infertility.
- Treatment: Laparoscopic adhesiolysis precisely separates these bands, reducing pain and improving fertility outcomes.
Ectopic Pregnancy
- Overview: Occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.
- Risks: Can cause internal bleeding and is potentially life-threatening.
- Treatment: Laparoscopic removal of the ectopic tissue is the standard of care, offering faster recovery and better preservation of fertility compared with open surgery.
Hysterectomy
- Overview: Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be required for persistent heavy bleeding, fibroids, prolapse, or cancerous conditions.
- Options:
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy: Uses small incisions for minimal scarring.
Using either technique above, patients typically experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery than with traditional open surgery.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
Compared with conventional open surgery, minimally invasive approaches offer several significant benefits:
- Smaller incisions: Reduced tissue trauma and better cosmetic outcomes.
- Less pain and blood loss: Fewer postoperative complications.
- Shorter hospital stay: Many procedures are performed as day surgery or with one overnight stay.
- Faster recovery: Most patients return to normal activity within one to two weeks.
- Lower risk of infection: Smaller wounds and reduced exposure.
- Improved precision: enabling complex surgeries to be performed safely.
Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry some level of risk, though minimally invasive techniques significantly reduce these compared to open surgery. Potential risks include:
- Bleeding or infection.
- Injury to surrounding organs (bowel, bladder, ureter).
- Anaesthetic complications.
- Conversion to open surgery (rare).
- Formation of postoperative adhesions.
At Monash Obstetrics, all patients undergo a thorough preoperative consultation, where your specialist will explain the benefits, alternatives and risks specific to your condition and surgery type.
The Surgical Process
- Initial consultation: Assessment of symptoms, review of imaging, and discussion of treatment options.
- Preoperative planning: Blood tests, imaging and anaesthetic assessment if required.
- Day of surgery: Performed under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting.
- Postoperative recovery: Most patients go home the same day or after one night.
- Follow-up: Review at our clinic within 1–2 weeks to monitor healing and address questions.
Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on wound care, pain relief, and when you can resume work, exercise, and sexual activity.
Fertility Preservation and Family Planning
Why Choose Monash Obstetrics for Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Expert surgeons: Each specialist is highly experienced in advanced laparoscopic techniques.
- Cutting-edge technology: Access to the latest surgical systems and equipment in Melbourne’s leading hospitals.
- Comprehensive care: From preoperative counselling to recovery and long-term follow-up.
- Focus on safety and precision: Minimising risks and optimising outcomes through evidence-based practice.
- Personalised support: Compassionate communication and clear guidance before and after surgery.
Monash Obstetrics combines surgical excellence with patient-centred care. Our team’s expertise in laparoscopic surgery ensures that each patient receives the most effective and least invasive treatment available – helping you recover faster and return to the things that matter most.
Book Your Consultation and Start Your Journey Today
Ready to take the next step in your health, fertility or pregnancy care? Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialist.