Removing lesions and possibly pelvic organs
Laparoscopic excision is the most common surgery to removeendometriosis(endo) lesions.
However, a healthcare provider may consider other surgical techniques based on your health and treatment goals.
Alaparotomy(open abdominal surgery with a large incision) is a more extensive and less common surgery.
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This technique is most common for those with deep infiltrating endometriosis andendometriomas(chocolate ovarian cysts).
This technique does not remove the root of the lesion.
Ablation is helpful for smaller, superficial lesions or in cases in which excision may prove challenging.
Your surgeon may use arobotic-assisted techniqueduring laparoscopy.
What Size Endometriomas Are Removed?
The standard suggestion is that surgeons remove endometriomas more than 4 centimeters (cm) wide.
This is important because many insurance companies require you to try other therapies before approving surgery.
Advocate for yourself by following up with the healthcare provider, especially if treatment is ineffective.
This allows them to adjust medications, document the ineffectiveness of treatment, or suggest surgery.
Providers recommend surgery when endometriosis pain or other symptoms outweigh the risks of surgery.
If your provider suggests surgery, collaborate with their office staff and insurance company to receive preauthorization.
Do this four to six weeks in advance to verify coverage details and confirm potential out-of-pocket expenses.
If the insurance companydeniesthe preauthorization, engage in its appeals process with support from healthcare providers and advocacy groups.
The following types of documentation help the insurance company decide if surgery ismedically necessary.
it’s possible for you to typically manage these symptoms with pain medications, throat lozenges, and rest.
Total recovery time takes several weeks.
Therisk of recurrenceis higher with ablation than with excision.
Hormonal suppression therapy following surgery may also decrease the risk of recurrence.
Repeat endometriosis surgery may become necessary if your symptoms return or you have persistent issues.
Who Is an Endometriosis Specialist?
An endometriosis specialist is an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) and surgeon with specialized training and extensive experience treating endometriosis.
They have a deep understanding of the complexities of endometriosis and keep up with the latest advancements in treatment.
Laparoscopic excision or ablation is the most common punch in of endometriosis surgery.
The expertise of the surgeon greatly impacts the success of the procedure.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition, and additional treatments or surgeries may become necessary over time.
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