Laser laparoscopy for endometriosis and endometriotic cysts.

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a common and debilitating condition involving women during their reproductive years. It is characterized by the occurrence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Presenting symptoms include chronic nonmenstrual pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and subfertility. The condition is diagnosed at laparoscopy, and operative laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis is also possible.

METHODS

This article critically evaluates the evidence for the laparoscopic management of endometriosis and endometriotic cysts. It focuses on laser laparoscopy and reviews the contribution made by the Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit, Guildford, UK, to the treatment of this condition.

RESULTS

Few randomized controlled trials have been undertaken to evaluate the surgical management of endometriosis. The studies that have been done show that laparoscopic surgery, including laser laparoscopy, is effective in the management of painful symptoms and subfertility and preventing cyst recurrence. Several of the landmark studies in this area have been carried out in Guildford.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery is the treatment of choice for patients with endometriosis and endometriotic cysts.