Bowel endometriosis is a complex and often debilitating form of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) where endometrial-like tissue grows on or into the bowel wall—most commonly the rectum, sigmoid colon, or other parts of the large intestine. This condition can cause symptoms like painful bowel movements, rectal bleeding, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation.
For many women, laparoscopic procedure offers effective relief, especially when medical management fails to control symptoms.
What Is Laparoscopic Surgery for Bowel Endometriosis?
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique where small incisions are made in the abdomen. Through these, a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical instruments are inserted to visualize and remove endometrial tissue affecting the bowel.
In bowel endometriosis, the procedure can involve:
- Shaving: Removal of superficial endometrial lesions on the surface of the bowel.
- Discoid Resection: Removing a deeper portion of the bowel wall if the lesion is limited in size.
- Segmental Resection: In more severe cases, a section of the bowel is removed and the healthy ends are reconnected.
The approach depends on extent, depth, and location of the endometriosis, as well as the patient’s symptoms and fertility goals.
Who Needs This Surgery?
Laparoscopic bowel surgery may be recommended for women who:
- Have severe or persistent symptoms not responding to hormonal treatments.
- Experience bowel obstruction or narrowing due to endometriotic nodules.
- Have deep infiltrating lesions confirmed by imaging (MRI or transvaginal ultrasound).
- Want to preserve or improve fertility where medical therapy is insufficient.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Pre-operative Assessment: Includes imaging, blood work, bowel prep, and possibly consultations with colorectal surgeons.
- General Anesthesia: The procedure is done under full anesthesia.
- Duration: Surgery may last 2–5 hours depending on the complexity.
- Multidisciplinary Team: In complex cases, both gynecologists and colorectal surgeons collaborate.
Recovery After Laparoscopic Bowel Surgery
Recovery is usually smoother than with open surgery, thanks to the minimally invasive approach. However, it still requires proper care:
- Hospital Stay: 2–5 days on average.
- Bowel Function: May take time to normalize; mild discomfort or altered bowel habits can occur.
- Return to Normal Activities: Typically within 2–4 weeks.
- Long-Term Relief: Many patients report significant improvement or resolution of bowel symptoms and pelvic pain.
Surgical Results and Prognosis
When performed by an experienced surgeon, laparoscopic surgery for bowel endometriosis offers:
- High symptom relief rates (70–90% depending on severity and extent).
- Improved quality of life, especially in chronic cases.
- Better fertility outcomes in selected patients.
- Lower recurrence rates when complete excision is achieved.
However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations, as surgery is not a cure—it’s a treatment, and some women may still require ongoing hormonal therapy post-op.
Why Expertise Matters
Due to the complexity of bowel endometriosis, it is critical to be treated by a highly skilled laparoscopic surgeon who specializes in endometriosis and has experience in advanced pelvic surgery.
Dr. Shinjini Pande – Expert Bowel Endometriosis Surgeon in Mumbai
If you are looking for an expert in laparoscopic surgery for bowel endometriosis, Dr. Shinjini Pande stands out as one of the best specialists in Mumbai.
Practicing at Nalini Speciality Hospital, Dr. Pande is renowned for her:
- Expertise in deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) surgery
- Multidisciplinary approach, ensuring safe and complete excision
- Compassionate, patient-centric care
With a track record of successful outcomes and a reputation for surgical excellence, Dr. Shinjini Pande is a trusted name for women seeking lasting relief from complex endometriosis involving the bowel.