Hysterectomy surgery with the least possible rest, fewer scars, and a faster recovery is possible with Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH). Every year, 600,000+ hysterectomies are done in the U.S. alone, and approximately 25% of them utilize the LAVH technique because of its minimally invasive nature. In India too, the popularity of LAVH surgery is growing.
This innovative concept not only curtails pain but also brings along a swift return to the daily routine. That’s why Apex Hospital – home to the leading laparoscopic surgeons in Sirsa, India – will take a closer look at what LAVH surgery entails. We will also discover why it’s a game-changer in gynecological procedures, so you can make a more informed choice.
What’s LAVH Surgery?
LAVH is an acronym for Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy and represents the extraction of the uterus through the vaginal canal aided by a laparoscope. For those who don’t know, a laparoscope is a small instrument with a camera, which is introduced through a small incision in the abdomen. The laparoscope magnifies the inside of the abdomen, enabling the surgeon to accurately make the cuts and remove the uterus. The process is done with minimum involvement of the neighboring tissues.
During LAVH, the procedure begins laparoscopically, allowing the surgeon to separate the uterus from its attachments, and is completed vaginally by removing the uterus through the vaginal opening. This hybrid approach reduces the need for large abdominal incisions, leading to less pain, reduced blood loss, and a faster recovery.
LAVH is often recommended for women experiencing:
– Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus causing heavy bleeding or discomfort.
– Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside it.
– Uterine Prolapse: When the uterus descends into or outside the vaginal canal due to weakened support tissues.
– Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Excessive, prolonged, or irregular bleeding not managed by medications.
– Chronic Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain in the pelvic region that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments.
– Adenomyosis: A condition where the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall, leading to heavy, painful periods.
Relevance of LAVH Surgery
LAVH surgery is a blend of advanced laparoscopic techniques with vaginal surgery that provides significant advantages for women facing various gynecological conditions. Let’s explore why this procedure is becoming the preferred choice for many women and healthcare professionals alike.
1. Minimally Invasive Approach
LAVH is a minimally disruptive surgical technique. Instead of accessing the organs through an open abdominal incision, LAVH is conducted with smaller incisions. This means there is less discomfort and the scars are very minimal. Here are some more benefits:
Less Pain: In most cases, patients feel less pain after surgery.
Lower Risk of Infection: The fact that the cuts are smaller is greatly beneficial as it lowers the chances of infection.
Minimal Scarring: LAVH means a smaller, almost invisible scar that is hardly visible.
2. Faster Recovery
This doubled method of combining approaches is used to achieve quick recovery. The healing of individuals takes place within a shorter period compared with the open abdominal surgical technique. Everyday activities can be resumed by most women even in a few weeks after the performance of an operation, whereas it takes much longer to recover from a hysterectomy done by opening the abdominal cavity.
3. Shorter Hospital Stay
Through LAVH, the duration of hospital visits becomes significantly shorter. Several patients get well enough to leave in one or two days after surgery. This reduces hospital bills, and delivers relief from a lengthy stay.
4. High Precision and Effectiveness
The laparoscope enables doctors to view magnified and clear images of the pelvic organs, hence accuracy is guaranteed. Surgeons are able to treat even the most severe cases of endometriosis or adhesions with more precision using LAVH surgery
5. Higher Patient Satisfaction
LAVH is making a great impact on patient satisfaction, with the majority of women reporting less time and pain during the post-surgery recovery period from symptoms such as bleeding and pelvic pain.
6. Ideal for a Range of Conditions
LAVH has practical applications for a lot of female medical conditions. It is possible to correct uterine fibrinous and irregular bleeding using LAVH. Problems related to the endometrial and uterus can also be addressed using this procedure.
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Recovery Time for LAVH Surgery
The recovery period after undergoing laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy is usually between 1 and 2 weeks depending on the patient’s overall health conditions.
Recovery time at the hospital
You’ll spend some hours in the recovery room after surgery as the anesthesia wears off. You may feel pain of mild to moderate intensity around the incision sites and in the vaginal area which is manageable through pain medication.
The average hospital stay for LAVH surgery ranges from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the patient’s health and any complications that might arise. The emphasis is on early mobilization, encouraging patients to walk around within hours of the procedure to prevent blood clots and aid recovery.
Recovery time at home
After reaching your home, it will take around 2 to 6 weeks to make a complete recovery.
In the first week, it is usually advised not to lift heavy loads and stay away from strenuous exercise.
For 2-4 weeks after surgery, light exercise and walking are recommended to maintain blood circulation. In most cases, women can return to light household work or desk jobs in two weeks.
Complete recovery after LAVH is said to take six weeks. However, full recovery time depends on several factors such as age, health condition, and compliance with post-operative directions.
LAVH Surgery Cost
The cost of LAVH surgery in India can vary depending on several factors. The cost largely depends on the region and facility where the surgery is performed. It’s obvious that a highly experienced surgeon or reputed hospital may charge more.
In India, the average cost of a LAVH procedure can range from ₹80,000 to ₹2,00,000. However, at Apex Hospital, the cost of LAVH surgery usually varies between ₹50,000 and ₹60,000.
The cost may increase depending on the case complexity though. The final LAVH surgery cost estimation will be shared by your healthcare provider. Whatsapp us on 82229-66666 to discuss your case and get on a call with one of our laparoscopy surgeons.
Get LAVH Surgery Help at Apex
LAVH surgery is a minimally invasive procedure offering several benefits, including faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars. At Apex Hospital, India, we bring an experienced team of surgeons that has vast experience in performing complex LAVH surgeries.
If you’re considering LAVH surgery, it’s crucial to understand the benefits, understand the costs involved, and have a comprehensive discussion with your gynecologist about your specific health needs. If you have any inquiries, please call us at 82229-66666 to discuss your concerns with our medical experts.
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