What is Laparoscopy Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy is an abnormal pregnancy that occurs outside the womb (uterus). The baby (fetus) cannot survive, and often does not develop at all in this type of pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is often caused by a condition that blocks or slows the movement of a fertilized egg through the fallopian tube to the uterus. This may be caused by a physical blockage in the tube by hormonal factors and by other factors, such as smoking.

Why is it done?

Laparoscopy Ectopic pregnancy is done if there is a rupture, to stop blood loss. This surgery is also done to; confirm an ectopic pregnancy, remove the abnormal pregnancy and to repair any tissue damage.

What to expect after surgery?

Patients will probably be able to get back to normal activities within a week's time, including driving, walking up stairs, light lifting and work. Activity is dependent on how the patient feels. Walking is encouraged. Patients can remove the dressings and shower the day after the operation. In general, recovery should be progressive, once the patient is at home. Most patients are fully recovered and may go back to work after seven to ten days. Often, this depends on the nature of your job since patients who perform manual labor or heavy lifting may require two to four weeks of recovery.

What are the risks of the surgery?

• The most common complication is rupture with internal bleeding that leads to shock.
• Death from rupture is rare.
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve injury
• Remaining ectopic tissue
• Reactions to medication or anesthesia

What are the alternatives to the surgery?

We can sometimes treat an ectopic pregnancy by giving a drug called methotrexate. We usually give this drug as an anti-cancer treatment. When we give it to treat an ectopic pregnancy it stops the embryo from growing any bigger. The embryo dies and the body slowly absorbs the remains. This can avoid the need for surgery.

If you need surgery you could have an open operation, called a laparotomy. Due to the benefits of laparoscopy over open operations, it is usually better to avoid this. If for some reason a laparoscopic operation is not possible, your surgeon will recommend an open operation. One reason for this would be if you were very ill due to internal bleeding from the ectopic pregnancy.