If you have been suffering from abdominal or pelvic pain, you may want to explore the option of diagnostic laparoscopy. Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure used to more effectively determine the cause of your pelvic pain or symptoms.
If you are considering diagnostic laparoscopy in the Houston, Texas area, we welcome an opportunity to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kristin Schmidt, OBGYN who has performed hundreds of laparoscopies in the last 20 years
Benefits of Choosing Dr. Schmidt
- Highly trained and experienced surgeon
- Provides choices for minimally invasive surgical options
- Care from puberty to post menopause years
- Experienced in complex surgical cases
What is Diagnostic Laparoscopy?
We perform diagnostic laparoscopy to determine the cause of chronic pelvic or abdominal pain or infertility. Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.
First we will administer anesthesia. Following this we will make a small incision in your abdominal area and insert a laparoscope. We will then fill the abdomen with gas to more clearly see your reproductive organs through the camera attached to the laparoscope.
Since each patient is unique, we make certain to listen and allow time to review your symptoms and medical history, so we know you and your condition.
Afterwards, Dr. Schmidt will meet with you to offer expert advice on the need for surgery and surgical options. Additionally you will receive information on expected recovery times, potential surgical outcomes and associated risks.
Planning for Your Diagnostic Laparoscopy
While laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure and we can send you home the same day, we will likely give you a form of anesthesia. Avoid eating or drinking for eight hours before the procedure and have arrangements for a ride home after your laparoscopy.
Please inform us of any medications you are taking prior to your laparoscopy and if you are pregnant.
Please contact us if pain and nausea doesn’t subside a few days after laparoscopy or if you have any other unusual symptoms.
Why a Diagnostic Laparoscopy?
We perform laparoscopies when other tests are inconclusive or don’t provide enough insight into your symptoms. When other tests are not able to pinpoint the exact cause of chronic pelvic pain, infertility or a pelvic mass, we may suggest laparoscopy.
We may choose to use diagnostic laparoscopy at our practice to diagnose or treat:
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Pelvic floor disorders
- Certain cancers
While laparoscopy may take longer to perform than an open surgery, the pain following this procedure is often much less and recovery time is generally faster.
Do You Offer Second Opinions?
Dr. Schmidt is always ready to answer your questions concerning the need for laparoscopy and what is best for your unique set of circumstances.
For More Information on Laparoscopy and If It’s Right for You Schedule your Visit Today at (713) 464-2100.