Hello!
I have a fibroid that is uncomfortable due to bulk and extends length of menstruation (7-9 days at least). I recently saw a fertility specialist who did an exam and recommended a “mini” laparoscopy to remove the fibroid. The doctor said the “mini-lap” would involve a three inch (approx) incision at the bikini line.
Can you explain the difference between the mini-lap and regular laparoscopy? Including the typical size of a bikini line incision (if one is involved)?
Thank you in advance.
G.
G,
A mini-lap is the term used for mini-laparotomy. As you describe, a mini-laparotomy involves a 2-3 inch incision above the pubic bone and uses standard surgical instruments and technique. Laparoscopy uses 3 or 4 much smaller incisions (1/2 inch each) and uses long instruments passed through these incisions to perform the surgery, which is viewed on a large video monitor. See the illustrations here: http://www.fibroidsecondopinion.com/laparoscopic-myomectomy/ compared to here: http://www.fibroidsecondopinion.com/abdominal-myomectomy/
I hope this is helpful,
Bill Parker, MD
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