Videolaseroscopy, New Modality for the Treatment of Endometriosis

Recent advances in endoscopic surgery have enabled the gynecologic surgeon to treat an increased number of diseases of the reproductive organs with use of the laser.To avoid significant back strain and fatigue associated with directly operating through the laparoscope, we have introduced a new modality called videolaseroscopy.This method involves the development and refinement of a new laser videomonitoring technique incorporating the use of a videocamera, videorecorder and high-resolution videomonitor in conjunction with the laser laparoscope.This permits the surgeon to operate in a more comfortable upright position directly from the videomonitor and thus reduces the fatigue associated with direct visual contact through the laparoscope during long complicated procedures.In the present study a total of 631 patients will be presented who underwent videolaseroscopy for the treatment of endometriosis (stages I-IV American Fertility Society).Details about these 631 patients will be discussed at the presentation.No major complications were reported in any patients undergoing the procedure and minor complications included those normally associated with laparoscopic procedures such as mcisional pain or shoulder pain secondary to trapped carbon dioxide gas.All patients were discharged within 24 h.By decreasing fatigue of the operator while at the same time providing the patient with a safe, cosmetically esthetic, efficacious therapeutic modality, videolaseroscopy has established itself as a new advancement in endoscopic treatment of diseases of the reproductive organs.In addition, videolaseroscopy is associated with a much shorter hopsitalization and convalescent period than is open laparotomy and also provides the opportunity for operating room personnel to actively participate and therefore better assist by viewing the procedure through the monitor.Additional benefits are the zooming effect of camera, possibility of operating at all angles by rotating camera and resistance of camera's eye (lens) to the smoke.In our opinion, videolaseroscopy is the best available treatment for endometriosis.