Patient's question:
I have been diagnosed with endometriosis, and it is quite severe. I tend to lean towards surgical treatment, but I am concerned about the potential negative effects on my body after the uterus is removed, as well as the impact on my life. Can the uterus be removed through laparoscopy?Doctor's answer:
Hello: Generally, there is no significant impact, but it is essential to actively treat it. Treatment methods mainly fall into two categories: surgery and medication. The choice of treatment should be comprehensive, considering factors such as the patient's age, the severity of the condition, and whether there are fertility requirements. Treatment should be tailored to the individual.I. Surgical Treatment: The earliest method used for treating endometriosis, it remains one of the primary approaches to this day. Surgery is mainly suitable for patients with severe conditions or those experiencing severe pain that is not relieved by medication.
(1) Conservative Surgery: Only the endometriotic lesions are removed, while the ovaries and uterus are preserved. This is suitable for younger patients who wish to preserve their fertility. Approximately 50%-60% of patients can become pregnant after surgery. However, the recurrence rate of pain is relatively high.
(2) Semi-radical Surgery: The endometriotic lesions are removed along with the uterus, while at least part of the ovaries are preserved. This is suitable for patients who have already given birth, are over 35 years old, suffer from persistent pain, or have concurrent uterine conditions. Semi-radical surgery can effectively alleviate menstrual pain and has a very low chance of recurrence after surgery.
(3) Radical Surgery: Both bilateral adnexa and the uterus are removed, which can completely cure endometriosis. This is suitable for women in menopause. In recent years, laparoscopic surgery has been widely used to treat endometriosis. All procedures that can be performed through open surgery can also be done laparoscopically. Additionally, laparoscopic surgery offers advantages such as minimal trauma, faster recovery, and reduced postoperative pelvic adhesion.
The symptom relief rate and pregnancy rate after laparoscopic surgery can achieve the same results as open surgery. It is gaining increasing attention.
II. Medication Treatment: Suitable for patients with mild conditions and small chocolate cysts. The treatment duration is generally 6-9 months.