HYSTERECTOMY ALTERNATIVES
DR. CATHERINE VANDERLOOS – SHREVEPORT, LA
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Dr. Vanderloos is able to help women with severe reproductive health concerns with laparoscopic hysterectomies and hysterectomy alternatives from her practice in Shreveport, LA.
WHAT IS A HYSTERECTOMY?
A hysterectomy is the removal of a woman’s uterus. This procedure is performed to treat several conditions including endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain, fibroids, uterine prolapse, irregular and heavy bleeding, cancer, and thickening of the uterus. The procedure can remove the uterus in full or in part and some cases the ovaries may be removed at the same time. This procedure is usually considered to be the last resort when other treatments have not been effective.
WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVES TO A HYSTERECTOMY THERE?
The doctor will usually try other less invasive treatments for patients before considering uterus removal. For example, when a patient needs treatment for fibroids the doctor may use a myomectomy to remove the fibroids or eliminate the fibroids using a technique to cut off blood flow to the fibroids. Endometrial ablation can be used when the patient suffers from abnormally heavy bleeding during her period. This is done to remove the lining of the uterus. When uterine prolapse is the concern, a device called a vaginal pessary can be used to hold the uterus in place. When treating endometriosis, the doctor will usually attempt more conservative treatment such as birth control pills to regulate hormones and reduce symptoms. In some instances, with all these conditions and more, a hysterectomy may be unavoidable.
WHAT IS LAPAROSCOPIC HYSTERECTOMY SURGERY?
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure and has fewer risks than a traditional abdominal hysterectomy. Patients recover more quickly, and the risk of scarring is reduced. Most hysterectomies at the practice are done laparoscopically. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the navel, and a tiny camera is inserted. Dr. Vanderloos can view the inside of the body using the image from this camera which is displayed on a monitor. Two to three additional tiny incisions are made in the lower abdomen where specialized instruments will be inserted and used for the actual removal.
DR. VANDERLOOS’ OTHER GYNECOLOGICAL SERVICES
VISIT CATHERINE VANDERLOOS, MD
Address:
460 Ashley Ridge Blvd | Suite 200
Shreveport, LA 71106
Phone: 318-865-4333
