This post was originally published on 26th March 2021 and updated on 16th March 2024
We are regularly asked about the treatment options for endometriosis. To answer those questions, in this article, we shed light on how endometriosis is treated using robotic surgery; and provide insight into the area. But first, it is important to understand the basics.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial tissue that lines the uterus – grows outside the uterus, eventually shedding into the abdominal cavity, causing chronic pain, abnormal periods and/or infertility. It is a women’s health concern diagnosed during their reproductive years, with 1 in 10 women suffering from it.
While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, there are ways in which we can treat it, including:
- hormonal and non-hormonal medication to manage pain and reduce oestrogen levels,
- alternative medications and treatments, such as physiotherapy and psychology, as a form of supportive treatment and
- surgical treatments such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery.
Before proceeding with any form of endometriosis treatment, your specialist will discuss the options available to suit your circumstances.
What is Endometriosis surgery?
Let us start at the beginning with an understanding of what endometriosis surgery is. Surgery for endometriosis is carried out to remove patches of endometrial tissue (typically found inside the uterus) that are growing outside of the uterus. The main types of surgery may include:
- Endometriosis resection: to remove endometriosis patches.
- Hysterectomy: to remove the uterus and possible nearby organs.
Is surgical treatment necessary?
In the case of endometriosis, surgical treatment is the only way to be sure that the cause of your symptoms is, in fact, endometriosis.
Understanding your options
If you and your doctor decide surgery is right for you, then there are two minimally invasive approaches:
- Laparoscopic surgery: A minimally invasive surgical diagnostic procedure used to examine the organs inside the abdomen.
- Robotics surgery: As per laparoscopic surgery this is a minimally invasive surgical diagnostic procedure used to examine the organs inside the abdomen. However, in this scenario, your doctor sits at a console next to you and operates the system to perform the procedure.
How we perform robotic surgery for endometriosis
Dr Kothari uses Da Vinci technology when performing robotic-assisted endometriosis surgery.
- As mentioned earlier, the doctor sits at a console next to you and operates using tiny, fully wristed instruments.
- A camera provides a high-definition, 3D view of the inside of your body.
- The Da Vinci system translates every hand movement in real time to operate with precision.
What are the benefits of robotic surgery?
There are several benefits to robotic surgery for endometriosis, including:
- Like laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery uses minor incisions, meaning the recovery period is usually faster and more comfortable, allowing patients to get back to their regular routines quickly.
- Less risk of infections.
- Lower risk of complications.
- Less pain and discomfort while recovering.
- Reduced risk of blood loss.
- Incisions are so small that they are often closed with surgical adhesives and covered with small bandages.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
This type of surgical treatment is usually conducted on an outpatient basis. Thus, you can return home the same day. Your doctor will let you know if you need to stay in the hospital longer.
Will I need to undergo robotic surgery for my endometriosis?
Whether your specialist will suggest robotic surgery for you will depend on several factors, including:
- the procedure you are having,
- your overall health and
- if it is the best approach for you.
Dr Kothari will carefully consider the best approach for you after thoroughly investigating your circumstances. He will take the time to go through with you, in detail, which technique he will perform before scheduling your surgery. This will also give you an opportunity to have any questions you have answered.
Why choose Dr Kothari for robotics surgery?
Dr Kothari is the first and leading gynaecologist to use da Vinci robotic-assisted techniques in the Illawarra. Due to his extensive laparoscopic background, transitioning to robotic surgery came naturally. He is now sought out as an expert in the field.
End the pain of endometriosis – book an appointment today
Are you or anyone you know suffering from endometriosis? Are you considering surgical treatment but are unsure? Give our team a call on 02 4225 1999 to book an appointment and have your questions answered.
Before proceeding with treatment, Dr Kothari will discuss all the options available to you. He will thoroughly advise you on the side effects, advantages and disadvantages of each type of treatment and answer any questions you may have. Whatever your decision, Dr Kothari and his team will support you every step of the way.