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Microsurgery and Laser Laparoscopy
Microsurgery and laser laparoscopy involve specialized operative techniques including the use of an operating microscope. Common microsurgical procedures for infertility include tubal anastomosis (reversal of sterilization); in vitro fertilization (IVF), gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT), and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT); endometriosis; pelvic and tubal adhesions; and firbroid removal (laparoscopic/hysteroscopic myomectomy).
Microsurgery and laser laparoscopy have led to many dramatic advances in the field of infertility. Surgeons can correct problems that previously were considered incurable, including fertility enhancing surgery and gynecologic surgery. These surgeries are different from conventional surgery in that they are performed with the aid of magnification with an operating microscope or a laparoscope. Special microscopes allow magnification from 2 to 30 fold, providing excellent visualization. Any evaluation(s), diagnosis or treatment will be provided by physicians, staff or independent contractors of The Western Pennsylvania Hospital or Allegheny General Hospital. We perform the following surgeries that may enhance fertility:
Reversal of Sterilization:
A recent survey indicated that more than 12 million people in the United States have been sterilized, and more than 60 percent of those procedures are performed on women. Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 of sterilized women will want to reverse the procedure, most often due to a renewed desire for children. Microsurgical techniques can be used to repair fallopian tubes with excellent results.
Endometriosis:
Endometriosis occurs when the lining of the uterus "backs up" into pelvic structures, creating internal scarring and subtle hormonal changes. Endometriosis has been found to prevent pregnancy, sometimes even if the scarring is minor. Laparoscopic surgery can be used to treat all stages of pelvic endometriosis, from mild to severe with excellent results. Surgical lasers, ultrasonic scalpels, or other techniques are frequently used to increase accuracy and decrease trauma to nearby tissues, leading to better postoperative healing and better results.
Pelvic and Tubal Adhesions:
Some sexually transmitted infections can cause pelvic adhesions or tubal obstructions that damage a woman's fertility. Adhesions may encapsulate the end of a fallopian tube, an ovary, or both. This can cause infertility by preventing the egg from reaching the fallopian tubes. Since even minimal adhesions may substantially reduce fertility, pelviscopic surgery is ideal because the scarring is less than with open surgery.
Fibroid Removal:
Laparoscopic/Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: Some women have benign tumors in their uterus, commonly known as fibroids. In some cases, fibroids may not present any problems. However, in many women, fibroids can cause excessive and frequent uterine bleeding, infertility, and recurrent miscarriage. Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy have proven to be successful in removing uterine fibroids.
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