SURGICAL TREATMENTS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS: ABOUT LAPAROTOMY.

A laparotomy is a major operation involving a cut in the abdomen. Both conservative laparotomy and hysterectomy are performed as part of a laparotomy. This section describes what will happen before, during and after a laparotomy.

Things to think about before a laparotomy

Before your operation it is important that you make sure that you and your gynaecologist agree on the purpose and nature of your surgery and that you have resolved any questions or concerns that you may have. If necessary you should make a special visit to discuss these issues. Ideally, the preparation for your surgery should involve preparing yourself physically and emotionally for the operation itself as well as planning for your recuperation period afterwards.

The healthier you are before surgery the more quickly you are likely to recover afterwards. It might be worthwhile taking a few steps to improve your general health if necessary.

Measures that might be worth considering include eating a nutritious diet, taking vitamin and mineral supplements, particularly vitamins B, E and C, and exercising regularly.

If you are a smoker it would be advisable for you to quit smoking at least one to two days before your operation to reduce the likelihood of anaesthetic complications. If you are taking the oral contraceptive pill it may be best to stop taking it for a month or so before your surgery to reduce the risk of complications, particularly thrombosis. If you are overweight, losing some weight will help reduce the risk of complications.

You should also make sure that you are completely happy with your decision to have the surgery. Do not hesitate to seek the advice and support of others if necessary.

Before you go into hospital you should arrange to have some help with household tasks such as cooking, laundry and cleaning when you return home.

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