Laparoscopic and Robotic Tubal Ligation

Barbara Schroeder MD, provides laparoscopic and robotic tubal ligation. Tubal ligation is a procedure in which a female is essentially sterilized by removing or blocking the Fallopian tubes. This prevents fertilization of an egg by sperm and is recommended as a form of permanent birth control for women who do not wish to get pregnant or have completed childbearing.

Dr. Schroeder utilizes laparoscopic and robotic tubal ligations to make this minimally invasive gynecologic surgery in Houston as simple as possible for patients. These methods lead to minimal pain and a shorter recovery than other approaches. The advantages of laparoscopic and robotic tubal ligation include:

• Shorter recovery time

• Minimal pain

• Fewer complications

• Less scarring

During a laparoscopic tubal ligation procedure with Dr. Schroeder, the patient gets to relax comfortably before being put under general anesthesia. Once under, several small incisions are made across the upper pelvic region. Dr. Schroeder then uses laparoscopy tools to visualize the abdominal cavity and navigate the pelvic organs. A long, thin laparoscope (camera) provides light inside the body to give the surgeon a detailed view of the Fallopian tubes and pelvic organs

Fiber optic fibers transmit images from a lens at the tip of this instrument to a video monitor that allows the surgeon to view everything up close while working. Carbon dioxide is introduced into the abdominal cavity to help expand the area while the doctor works, making it easier to see and work with the reproductive organs.

With the power of laparoscopy, Dr. Schroeder uses surgical tools to create a blockage through which sperm cannot pass to reach an egg. In some cases, Dr. Schroeder may remove the Fallopian tubes as a form of permanent female sterilization.

Robotic tubal ligation utilizes the daVinci system to create a blockage of the Fallopian tubes. The patient is put under general anesthesia during a robotic tubal ligation before several small incisions are made across the abdomen. Dr. Schroeder then uses the daVinci system control devices to navigate the pelvic organs. She uses miniaturized surgical tools to tie the Fallopian tubes, creating a blockage that sperm cannot pass through. She may also remove the tubes instead if possible or necessary.

Laparoscopic and robotic tubal ligation are outpatient procedures, allowing patients to return home several hours after surgery. Recovery from either laparoscopic or robotic tubal ligation is relatively simple and results in minimal pain. There may be minor scarring where the small incisions were made. Patients can return to normal activity about one week after their procedure.