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 having my uterus removed, as well as how it might impact 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 are mainly divided into two categories: surgery and medication. The choice of treatment should be considered comprehensively based on 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. Surgical treatment is mainly suitable for patients with more severe conditions or those with severe pain that is not effectively managed by medication.
(1) Conservative Surgery: Only the endometriotic lesions are removed while preserving the ovaries and uterus. This is suitable for younger patients who wish to preserve their fertility. Approximately 50%-60% of patients can become pregnant after the 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, have persistent pain, or have concurrent uterine conditions. Semi-radical surgery can effectively alleviate menstrual pain and has a very low chance of recurrence after the procedure.
(3) Radical Surgery: The bilateral adnexa and 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. Most surgeries 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: This is suitable for patients with milder conditions and small chocolate cysts. The treatment duration is generally 6-9 months.