Diagnostic Surgical Procedures for Fertility Evaluation in our Dallas area Fertility Center
Because the physical condition of your reproductive organs, impacts your fertility, Dr. Douglas will want a thorough assessment the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and the ovaries. Any abnormalities, such as a uterine septum, fibroids, or endometriosis, may require minor surgical procedures, completed either via laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.
IVF Plano provides several diagnostic surgical procedures for Infertility evaluation.
Diagnostic laparoscopy
Considered an outpatient procedure, a diagnostic laparoscopy is preformed under general anesthesia. Dr Douglas will insert a laparoscope, a thin, lighted telescope-like instrument, into the abdominal cavity through an incision in the navel. This tiny camera allows Dr Douglas to see the overall condition of the pelvic structures.
While inside the pelvic cavity, Dr Douglas can look for problems with the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, as well as for the presence of scarring or endometriosis. At this time, the doctor may inject a solution into the uterus and up through the tubes to ensure that the tubes are open or patent.
Often, we can use a Diagnostic laparoscopy to confirm the findings of a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). During the laparoscopic examination, Dr. Douglas will correct minor and may also address larger problems such as fibroids, cysts and extensive pelvic adhesions. If the fallopian tubes appear to be beyond repair, Dr. Douglas may advise more extensive surgery to remove the damaged tubes (see treatments: tubal surgery)
Hysteroscopy
To visually inspect the uterine cavity and detect uterine abnormalities, Dr. Douglas performs a hysteroscopy, a surgical procedure in which a telescope is placed vaginally through the cervix directly into the uterus. If a uterine abnormality is suspected after a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), Dr Douglas may opt for this procedure.
A hysteroscopy is usually performed in the early half of a woman’s cycle so that the endometrial layer does not obscure the view of the uterine walls. Usually, patients recover from a hysteroscopy within 12 to 24 hours, with mild cramping and bleeding. We recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil for any pain or discomfort.
Laparotomy
A laparotomy is often used to remove multiple fibroid tumors within the uterus or to treat severe endometriosis or adhesions that cannot be safely treated by laparoscopy. With a laparotomy, Dr. Douglas creates an abdominal incision, typically made along the ‘bikini-line’. Dr Douglas will make the incision as small as possible and uses stitches are close the incision to allow for minimal scarring. Most patients will require a short hospital stay to recover and can return to work in about two to four weeks .
Evaluation Results and Treatment
Once Dr. Douglas has completed a full assessment, he will usually schedule a meeting with you and your partner to review the results and discuss treatment (to tab) recommendations. At this time, Dr. Douglas will outline the treatment plan and its success rates, explain the risks of any recommended treatment, and work with you and your partner to determine the best course of action. Deciding which fertility treatment to pursue depends on many factors, including your age, the underlying cause of infertility, how long you have been trying to conceive, the cost and success of treatment chosen, and insurance coverage. Once you and your partner select a specific therapy, you will receive a treatment plan and calendar with instructions on how to begin the process and when to schedule your next appointment.
Should you have questions about costs or insurance, our business office will be happy to discuss an estimate of charges and your insurance benefits, so don’t hesitate to contact us.
