Benefits of gynecological laser? Common types and notes

Benefits of gynaecological laser

Lasers are used to treat several women’s health issues related to the gynaecology system, such as genital warts, early signs of cancer in the lower genital area, pelvic endometriosis, polycystic ovaries, and heavy periods. The therapy provides several notable advantages over traditional surgical methods:

Minimally invasive approach

One of the main benefits of gynaecological laser treatments is that they are minimally invasive. Traditional surgeries often involve large incisions that require extended recovery times. With lasers, doctors can target specific areas with great precision, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. This significantly reduces pain and recovery time for patients.

Faster recovery time

Compared to conventional surgical methods, gynaecological laser treatment allows for a much faster recovery period. Since the procedure is less invasive, the patient can usually return to daily activities much sooner. The precision of the laser means less bleeding and trauma, leading to quicker healing.

Less scarring

Laser treatment is often used in delicate areas, such as the cervix and reproductive organs. Traditional surgery can leave scars that might impact future fertility or cause complications. With lasers, the risk of scarring is minimized, promoting better long-term health and functionality of the reproductive organs.

Targeted treatment for precise results

Laser treatments are incredibly precise, enabling the physician to target abnormal tissue without affecting healthy tissue. This is particularly useful for conditions such as polyps, fibroids, and abnormal cells that could otherwise lead to more severe complications. By focusing only on the problem area, lasers allow for highly effective treatment with fewer side effects.

Enhanced patient comfort

Patients often experience less discomfort during and after the procedure. The use of lasers reduces the need for stitches, minimizes bleeding, and decreases the risk of infection, all of which lead to a more comfortable recovery process.

Common types of laser used in gynaecological surgery

Different types of lasers are employed depending on the procedure, and understanding these can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.

CO2 laser

The CO2 laser is often used with special tools like a laparoscope or colposcope to treat problems in the vulva, vagina, or cervix. This procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office using local anesthesia, which numbs the area.

Nd:YAG laser

The Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet laser, or Nd:YAG laser is used to treat chronic heavy menstrual bleeding by targeting the uterine lining to stop bleeding. It can be done vaginally or through the abdomen with a hysteroscope or laparoscope. This method helps avoid hysterectomy and can stop periods for women who may want to have children later.

It is also used to treat uterine fibroids and abnormal cervical cells like those found in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

Er:YAG laser

The Er:YAG laser is used to treat problems like vaginal looseness, mixed urinary incontinence, stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapses or vaginal atrophy.

The Er:YAG laser works by focusing a beam of energy on the surface of the vaginal skin, which heats up the tissue. Even though a numbing cream is used, you may still feel some warmth during the procedure. The heat reaches deeper layers, helping to rebuild collagen, repair tissues, and improve pelvic floor function.

This treatment is minimally invasive, meaning it’s less risky than surgery but may not be as powerful.

KTP (Potassium-Titanyl-Phosphate) laser

The KTP laser is used to treat benign peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare non-cancerous tumor. This condition can cause abdominal or pelvic pain, tenderness, constipation, and trouble urinating. The KTP laser is also used during laparoscopy to help relieve these symptoms and reduce the chance of the tumor of the gynecologic oncology coming back.

However, since the tumor can return in more than 50% of cases, it’s important to have regular follow-up appointments for gynaecological ultrasound scan.

Diode laser

The diode laser is used to treat deep endometriosis and help with infertility. Some women have a T-shaped or Y-shaped uterus, which means the outside of the uterus looks normal, but the inside is shaped abnormally. This can make it harder to get pregnant, as the narrow uterus can cause implantation failure or miscarriage.

Using a diode laser during a procedure called hysteroscopic metroplasty (done under general anesthesia) can improve the chances of pregnancy for women with these types of uterine shapes.

Argon laser

The argon laser is commonly used to treat women with pelvic endometriosis. During a laparoscopic procedure, the laser is used to remove the abnormal endometrial tissue.

Many women experience significant relief from pelvic pain after the treatment, with some achieving complete pain relief. This kind of laser is considered a simple, effective, and safe treatment option for mild to severe endometriosis.

Is gynaecological laser treatment safe?

Gynaecological laser treatment is safe when performed by an experienced gynaecology specialist. It is minimally invasive, with a quick recovery time and fewer risks compared to traditional surgery.

While risks like infection or discomfort can occur, they are rare. It’s important to find reputable gynaecology clinics to ensure the treatment is right for you.

Gynaecological laser treatments provide a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for conditions like vaginal laxity and endometriosis. They offer quick recovery and fewer risks compared to traditional surgery. However, it is crucial to seek treatment from a qualified gynaecologist to ensure the procedure is appropriate and to minimize potential risks.