Physicians need to remember that sometimes patients have a different impression of surgical procedures than doctors. Thus education and an honest assessment of the risks and benefits is necessary. Patients should keep in mind that despite the best efforts of the doctor, and despite his or her skills, sometimes complications can occur during surgical procedures. Simply put, there is always a balance between the potential benefits of having a surgical procedure performed and the potential chance of complications that might occur from that procedure. Each patient will heal differently.
Many women report shoulder pain due to the gas used to distend the abdomen.
All of these are normal, and can be relieved by appropriate use of pain medications, heating pads, and rest. Most gynecologists advise against driving, exercise, sex, or heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks. I have seen patients golf within 3 days of a laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy while others are unable to venture outside of the house for a week after the same procedure. Before leaving the hospital a patient should be comfortable with the directions she receives from her nurses and doctor. In summary, laparoscopy is a wonderful tool for performing gynecologic surgery.