Laser laparoscopy—indications,techniques and results

The laser has revolutionized the role of gynaecological laparoscopy from a purely diagnostic one to that of first line operative intervention. Since the first report from Professor Bruhat of the use of the carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser at laparoscopy in 1979, there have been several advances made both in the type of laser used in gynaecology and the techniques employed. Initially used for the treatment of endometriosis and adhesions, the laser has been used in such diverse areas as treatment of polycystic ovarian disease, neosalpingostomies and myomectomies. Another advantage of laser laparoscopy is that it can often lead to a complete withdrawal from, or marked reduction in medication requirements, particularly when used in the treatment for dysmenorrhoea, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian disease. Today, there are few gynaecological procedures that cannot be performed laparoscopically, there-by avoiding all the sequelae associated with laparotomy. The laser as a surgical tool has been at the forefront of minimally invasive surgery. Minimal invasive surgical techniques not only reduce the length of stay in hospital, a crucial factor in today's economic climate, but also reduce post-operative morbidity, decrease the length of convalescence and allow the woman to return more quickly to her normal routine. Paper presented at the Third Congress of the Scandinavian Society for Laser Therapy, October 1991, Orebro, Sweden.