Undergoing surgery for endometriosis can be both a daunting and hopeful experience. Here’s what you can expect during and after the procedure:
Before Surgery:
- Preparation: Your healthcare team will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for surgery, which may include fasting, stopping certain medications, and arranging transportation to and from the hospital.
- Medical Evaluation: Before surgery, you may undergo tests such as blood work, imaging scans, and possibly a pelvic exam to assess the extent of endometriosis and plan the surgical approach.
- Discussion with Surgeon: You’ll have an opportunity to discuss the procedure with your surgeon, including the goals of surgery, potential risks, and expected outcomes. This is also a chance to address any concerns or questions you may have.
During Surgery:
- Anesthesia: Endometriosis surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure.
- Surgical Approach: The surgeon will use minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, to access and remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. In some cases, larger implants or extensive adhesions may require open abdominal surgery (laparotomy).
- Tissue Removal: The primary goal of surgery is to excise (cut out) endometrial lesions and any adhesions they’ve caused. The surgeon will carefully remove affected tissue while preserving surrounding organs and structures.
- Possible Additional Procedures: Depending on your individual situation, additional procedures such as ovarian cyst removal, adhesion release, or fertility-enhancing surgeries may be performed concurrently.
After Surgery:
- Recovery Room: After surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and ensure you’re comfortable as the anesthesia wears off.
- Pain Management: You may experience some discomfort or pain after surgery, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Hospital Stay: Depending on the complexity of the procedure and your recovery progress, you may stay in the hospital for a few hours to a couple of days before being discharged home.
- Follow-up Care: Your healthcare team will provide instructions for post-operative care, including wound care, activity restrictions, and when to follow up with your surgeon for a post-operative appointment.
- Recovery Time: Recovery time varies depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing factors. Most people can resume normal activities within a few days to a few weeks, but strenuous activity and heavy lifting may need to be avoided for a longer period.
