Description

Laparoscopic myomectomy has emerged as a pivotal procedure in the realm of minimally invasive gynecological surgeries, offering women an effective solution for uterine fibroids while preserving uterine integrity. The 8th World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS) held on February 8-9, 2025, at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, served as a significant platform for discussing advancements in this field. Among the esteemed speakers was Dr. Usha M Kumar, a distinguished obstetrician, gynecologist, and expert laparoscopic surgeon, who shared invaluable insights into laparoscopic myomectomy. Understanding Laparoscopic Myomectomy Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are benign tumors that develop within the uterine wall. While often asymptomatic, they can lead to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive challenges. Laparoscopic myomectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique designed to excise these fibroids while conserving the uterus, making it a preferred option for women aiming to maintain fertility or avoid hysterectomy. Advantages of Laparoscopic Myomectomy Dr. Usha M Kumar highlighted several benefits of opting for laparoscopic myomectomy over traditional open surgery: 1. Minimally Invasive Approach: The procedure involves small abdominal incisions through which specialized instruments and a laparoscope—a camera-equipped device—are inserted. This technique minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in faster recovery and reduced scarring. 2. Uterine Preservation: Unlike hysterectomy, which entails the removal of the entire uterus, laparoscopic myomectomy focuses solely on removing fibroids, preserving the uterus's structure and function. This is especially beneficial for women desiring future pregnancies or wishing to retain their uterus for personal reasons. 3. Reduced Post-operative Discomfort: The minimally invasive nature of the surgery leads to less tissue damage, thereby diminishing post-operative pain and decreasing the reliance on pain medications during recovery. 4. Shortened Hospitalization: Patients undergoing laparoscopic myomectomy typically experience shorter hospital stays, often being discharged within 24 to 48 hours post-procedure, facilitating a quicker return to daily activities. 5. Enhanced Cosmetic Results: The use of small incisions results in minimal scarring, offering improved cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional open surgeries. Procedure Overview The laparoscopic myomectomy procedure, as elucidated by Dr. Kumar, encompasses the following steps: 1. Incision: Several small (typically less than half an inch) incisions are made in the abdomen to provide access to the uterus and fibroids. 2. Visualization: A laparoscope is inserted through one incision, offering a magnified view of the pelvic organs. 3. Fibroid Removal: Specialized instruments are introduced through the other incisions to meticulously dissect and extract the fibroids from the uterine wall. 4. Closure: After fibroid removal, the uterine muscle is sutured, and the abdominal incisions are closed using sutures or surgical glue. Dr. Usha M Kumar's Expertise With over three decades of experience, Dr. Usha M Kumar has established herself as a leading figure in gynecological endoscopic surgeries. She has performed approximately 10,000 surgeries, adeptly managing both domestic and international patients. Her extensive training includes advanced laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures from Germany, and she holds memberships in prestigious organizations such as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (UK) and the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI). Conclusion Laparoscopic myomectomy stands as a testament to the advancements in minimally invasive gynecological surgery, offering women a safe and effective treatment for uterine fibroids while preserving uterine function. Insights from experts like Dr. Usha M Kumar, shared during forums such as WALS 2025, continue to propel the field forward, ensuring that patients receive care that is both innovative and compassionate.