laparoscopic abdominal cerclage
Laparoscopic abdominal cerclage is a surgical procedure that is used to treat cervical incompetence, which is a condition where the cervix is weak and unable to support a growing fetus during pregnancy. During the procedure, a synthetic tape is placed around the cervix and then secured to the abdominal wall. This helps to provide additional support to the cervix and prevent it from opening prematurely.
Indications for laparoscopic abdominal cerclage
cervical incompetence, which is a condition in which the cervix is weak and unable to support a growing fetus during pregnancy. This can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, or other complications.
Failed transvaginal cerclage
Anatomical abnormalities
History of cervical surgery
Laparoscopic abdominal cerclage is a surgical procedure that is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure is performed through small incisions in the abdomen and involves the following steps:
- Access: The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen, and then inserts a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light) and other specialized instruments through these incisions.
- Dissection: The surgeon carefully dissects the tissues surrounding the cervix to expose the top of the cervix and create a tunnel through which the synthetic tape can be passed.
- Placement:A synthetic tape is passed through the tunnel and around the cervix, and then secured to the abdominal wall with sutures or anchors. The tape provides additional support to the cervix and helps to prevent it from opening prematurely.
- Closure: Once the tape is in place, the surgeon removes the laparoscope and other instruments, and closes the incisions in the abdomen with sutures or staples.
Laparoscopic abdominal cerclage offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including:
Less pain
Shorter hospital stay
Quicker recovery time
Lower risk of complications
Better cosmetic outcome.
General anesthesia
Bleeding or infection
Limited availability
Cost
Limited evidence
Pain and discomfort
Difficulty conceiving
Preterm labor
Cervical incompetence recurrence
Limited options for future pregnancies
Laparoscopic abdominal cerclage is a specialized surgical procedure that should be performed by an experienced surgeon with specific training and expertise in laparoscopic techniques. A qualified healthcare provider who is experienced in the management of cervical incompetence, such as a gynecologist or a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, should perform the procedure.
Before undergoing laparoscopic abdominal cerclage, it is important to discuss the surgeon's experience and qualifications, as well as the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. You may also want to ask about the surgeon's success rates and the number of procedures they have performed, as well as any alternatives to the procedure that may be available.