Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Vaginal Hysterectomy Assisted with Laparoscopy
Overview & Description
A vaginal hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus and cervix through the vagina. A laparoscope is a small tube with a light and camera at one end. It allows the surgeon to see the inside of the pelvic cavity without making a big cut in the skin. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may also be removed in this procedure.
Who is a candidate for the procedure?
A vaginal hysterectomy assisted with laparoscopy may be used for the following problems:
How is the procedure performed?
Before surgery, several things are usually done.
In the operating room, a small incision is made below the navel to place the laparoscope. The stomach is then inflated with gas so that the surgeon can see clearly inside the body. Other surgical tools are placed through two small cuts in the lower part of the belly. These are used to cut the tissues, such as blood vessels, that surround the uterus and cervix. These tissues must be cut and tied off before the uterus is removed. The uterus is then removed through the vagina. The vagina is closed with sutures at the top.
The surgery usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. At times, the ovaries and tubes or other structures may be removed or repaired during the procedure.