Laparoscopic Surgery in McKinney, TX

At Craig Ranch OBGYN, our physicians utilize the latest treatment techniques to help patients return to normal activities as quickly as possible. Cutting-edge treatment options such as laparoscopic procedures enable us to conduct care in the most minimally-invasive way. In turn, our patients obtain the care they need to regain peace of mind about their health and wellness.

What Is Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is a type of minimally-invasive surgical technique that works by creating multiple small incisions to operate as opposed to the kind of larger incisions you would expect from open surgeries. This is made possible because the procedure is performed delicately with the use of a surgical camera that allows your surgeon to see and operate on all of the vital areas. The surgical camera is affixed to the end of a thin tube that slips easily through one of the incisions.

The video that the camera then captures is transmitted back up the tube to a screen where your surgeon will be able to accurately navigate small instruments through a few additional incisions as needed to repair or remove tissue. Once the problem is resolved, the incisions will be stitched back together, and your recovery process can begin.

Laparoscopic Surgery Diagram McKinney TX

What Conditions Are Treated With Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopy is a common procedure used in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pelvic pain, a pelvic mass, and infertility. Some of the conditions for which this technique may be recommended include:

Fibroids

Fibroids are typically benign growths that develop on the lining of the uterus. Fibroids may exist either inside the uterus or on the outside wall, where they cause heavy menstruation and, most likely, pain or discomfort. Current estimations show that the majority of women—about 70% to 80%—will develop fibroids at some point during their lifetimes. However, the good news is that most will also not develop any of the negative symptoms and, as such, will not need to undergo laparoscopic surgery.

Endometriosis

This condition is a disease wherein your body's endometrium—the inner lining of the uterus—begins to also grow outside of the uterus. This can cause intense abdominal and pelvic pain while also making it more difficult to become pregnant. Unfortunately, it can also be a recurrent problem, beginning around the time of an individual's first period and ending as menopause sets in.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy, though very rare, occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. The vast majority of the time—about 90%—this occurs in a fallopian tube. When this happens, life-threatening complications can occur. As the fertilized egg begins to grow, it will eventually cause the fallopian tube to rupture or burst, which leads to significant internal bleeding that can be fatal if left untreated. Thankfully, laparoscopic surgery in McKinney, TX, can be used to remove the egg before this occurs, as there will be clear warning signs of pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding before a burst occurs.

Laparoscopic surgery can also be used to address the following issues:

  • Pelvic floor disorders, including conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence.
  • Ovarian cysts, which may need to be surgically removed if they do not go away on their own.
  • Certain gynecological cancers, which can be removed effectively using the laparoscopic technique.

What Are The Benefits Of Laparoscopic Surgery?

There are several benefits obtained with laparoscopic surgery. These include:

  • Minimally invasive technique incurs small incisions.
  • Laparoscopic procedures are often performed on an outpatient basis.
  • Recovery from laparoscopic procedures is generally shorter than open surgery techniques.
  • Scarring from laparoscopic surgery is minimal.
  • Risk of infection is reduced when smaller incisions are made.
Laparoscopic Surgery McKinney TX

What Is The Best Way To Prepare For Laparoscopic Surgery?

There is very little preparation needed for pelvic laparoscopic surgery. We provide detailed instructions regarding when you need to stop eating and drinking, what medications you may need to stop or start taking, and other guidelines. If you have questions as your surgery date arrives, please contact our office. We’re happy to assist you.

How Is Laparoscopic Surgery Performed?

Laparoscopic surgery may be conducted in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. The procedure is performed using general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia has been administered, a small incision is made in the abdomen. The abdominal cavity is then filled with gas, and this enables the surgeon to accurately observe pelvic and reproductive organs with help from the aforementioned surgical camera. Your surgeon will then begin to operate as described above in the section defining laparoscopic surgery in McKinney, TX.

Laparoscopic Procedures McKinney TX

How Long Does A Laparoscopic Procedure Take?

Laparoscopic surgery typically lasts about an hour but may take longer, depending on the extent of treatment needed. However, once the surgery is completed, you will have to spend additional time in the hospital or outpatient surgery center as the anesthetics and sedatives wear off, and the doctors can ensure that you are well enough to head home.

What To Expect After Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic Surgery Surgeon McKinney TX

After the procedure is completed, the initial recovery takes place in the surgical center. Patients are observed and monitored until the anesthesia wears off enough for them to stand on their own. They may then be driven home by a loved one.

Recovery After Laparoscopic Surgery

Women treated with laparoscopic surgery typically return home with stitches or Steri-strips. Depending on what the surgeon inserts, stitches may need to be removed a few days after surgery. Sometimes, sutures are absorbable. Patients are informed of the type of closure used during their procedure and are scheduled as needed for their appropriate follow-up.

Bandages used to cover incisions may be removed 1 to 2 days after surgery. If strips are used, they may fall off over the course of several days. It is important to keep incisions clean but not necessary to rub them with soap or apply any ointments or creams to them.

It is normal for pain or numbness to occur around incisions. Patients may also experience discomfort around incisions as well as internally, where tissue has been manipulated. This may feel like bloating or cramping. Women who undergo laparoscopic surgery may also notice shoulder pain for up to one week after their procedure. These types of discomfort related to gas buildup in the intestines as well as the effects of filling the abdominal cavity with gas during surgery.

During recovery from laparoscopic surgery, medication can be taken as needed and as directed to manage comfort. If pain is minimal or does not develop, it is not necessary to take medication as a form of prevention.

What Are The Risks Of Laparoscopic Surgery?

There are minor risks associated with laparoscopic surgery, including:

  • Complications related to anesthesia
  • Internal bleeding
  • Hernia
  • Infection
  • Damage to an organ or blood vessel
Laparoscopic Surgery check box on paper

How Do I Know if I Am a Good Candidate for Laparoscopic Surgery?

Determining if you are a good candidate for laparoscopic surgery involves a thorough evaluation. Factors that may influence suitability may include:

  • Overall health
  • The specific medical condition you aim to treat (endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, pelvic pain, etc.)
  • Previous abdominal surgeries
  • Existing medical conditions

During your consultation, a surgeon will review your medical history, perform necessary examinations, and discuss the benefits and risks. They will ensure this procedure is appropriate for you before they proceed.

Can Laparoscopic Surgery Affect Fertility?

Laparoscopic surgery can have varying impacts on fertility. The exact effect depends on the condition being treated and the extent of the procedure. 

For many women, laparoscopic surgeries can enhance fertility. This is particularly true when addressing issues such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or blocked fallopian tubes.

These conditions, if left untreated, can impede fertility. Surgical intervention may improve your chances of conceiving. 

It’s crucial to discuss fertility goals with your surgeon before the procedure. The specialists at Craig Ranch OB/GYN will provide personalized care. They will also discuss any potential impacts on your reproductive health.

Will I Need to Stay in the Hospital Overnight?

Whether you need to stay overnight in the hospital after laparoscopic surgery depends on the specific procedure and individual recovery progress. 

Many laparoscopic surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis. This means you can return home the same day. 

Laparoscopic Surgery Instruments McKinney TX

More complex procedures or certain patient conditions might require an overnight stay for observation and pain management.

Your surgeon will provide you with a detailed postoperative plan. They will determine the best course of action based on your unique needs.

What Are the Signs of Infection to Look Out for After Surgery?

Postoperative infections are rare. However, they can occur after laparoscopic surgery. That’s why monitoring your recovery and being aware of signs of infection is essential. 

Symptoms to watch for include:

  • Increased redness
  • Swelling
  • Warmth around the incision sites
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Unusual or foul-smelling discharge from the incision
  • Persistent pain that worsens instead of improving

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately. Prompt attention to these signs ensures a smooth recovery and helps prevent complications.

Can Laparoscopic Surgery Be Used to Diagnose Conditions as Well as Treat Them?

Laparoscopic surgery is valuable for both diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. 

Your surgeon will insert a small camera through a tiny incision during a diagnostic laparoscopy. This allows them to see internal organs and tissues in real time. 

This minimally invasive procedure is particularly useful for diagnosing issues like:

  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Unexplained infertility
  • Endometriosis 

Treatment can often be performed simultaneously if a problem is detected during the diagnostic phase. This reduces the need for further surgeries and ensures a quicker path to healing.

How Does Laparoscopic Surgery Impact Long-Term Health Outcomes Compared to Open Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery generally offers better long-term health outcomes compared to traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure means smaller incisions. That leads to reduced pain, lower risk of infection, and quicker recovery times. 

Patients often experience shorter hospital stays and can return to normal activities sooner. Additionally, the precision of laparoscopic surgery minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues. This can lead to less scarring and a lower likelihood of complications.

Why Choose Craig Ranch OB/GYN?

Craig Ranch OB/GYN is a top-rated obstetrics and gynecology practice. We are known for offering advanced care, including laparoscopic surgery. 

Our practice stands out, in part, due to its team of board-certified physicians. They have received training from some of the most prestigious programs in the country and have over 50 years of combined experience.

The team is also committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advances in women’s health. We ensure patients receive the most effective and cutting-edge treatments available.

What Our Patients Have To Say

“This office is awesome! All the Doctors are so caring and really take their time with their patients. They addressed all my concerns and I did not feel rushed at all. The office is beautiful and so clean. The office staff was very helpful and knowledgeable. I could tell they all enjoy their jobs. I highly recommend Craig Ranch OB/GYN.

“I LOVE this practice! I was referred to Craig Ranch OBGyn after having a terrible experience with a botched procedure at a different practice. I have regularly seen both Dr. Robert and Dr. Baidwan and they are both just amazing! They are very friendly, very knowledgeable and very good at their jobs. The front office staff is so friendly too, and I’ve loved the nurses as well. I always look forward to my visits, I know I’m going to be well taken care of.”

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you are interested in learning more about our Laparoscopic procedures to see if you are an ideal candidate, please call us at 214.544.6600 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. Craig Ranch OB/GYN is proud to serve McKinney, TX, and the surrounding areas.

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