Minimal access surgery for gynaecology

About

Our minimal access gynaecology service uses a range of medical and surgical options to help manage common and potentially debilitating gynaecological conditions such as fibroids (non-cancerous womb tumours), endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, ovarian cysts and polyps. Almost all operations are performed as 'keyhole' surgery (small incisions in the abdomen for laparoscopic surgery or via the vagina without incisions for hysteroscopic surgery).

We have a national reputation for advanced laparoscopic surgery and are recognised as a centre for surgical treatment of complex endometriosis by the British Society of Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE). We are one of a small number of centres that can offer all treatments for fibroids and in particular laparoscopic surgery for large and multiple fibroids. We also have a dedicated endometriosis nurse specialist on our team.

Conditions and treatments

Our service uses medical treatments and minimal access surgery to treat gynaecological conditions such as:

• Fibroids: Treatments include removing fibroids via keyhole surgery or open surgery, uterine artery embolisation (UAE) to cut blood supply to fibroids and keyhole hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
• Endometriosis: Treatments include contraceptives such as the Mirena intrauterine system (IUS), synthetic hormones, ablation or excision of endometriosis through keyhole surgery and keyhole hysterectomy
• Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts are typically treated with keyhole surgery, including for large tumours
• Menorrhagia (abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding): Treatments include Mirena IUS and surgery, including endometrial ablation and resection (destruction or removal of the lining of the womb)
• Pelvic pain: Medical management including liaison with other services (e.g. pain service, urogynaecology) and surgical interventions as appropriate.

Further online resources

• NHS Choices – endometriosis
• NHS Choices – fibroids
• NHS Choices – laparoscopy