LAVH, or Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy, involves using laparoscopic techniques to remove the uterus and potentially the fallopian tubes and ovaries via the vaginal canal. During this procedure, small incisions are created in the abdominal wall, allowing slender metal tubes called "trocars" to be inserted. These serve as pathways for a laparoscope and other microsurgical instruments. The laparoscope, a small telescope, is equipped with a camera that transmits a magnified image to a television screen for the surgeon to view throughout the operation.During LAVH, the uterus is separated from the ligaments connecting it to surrounding structures using laparoscopic instruments. If the fallopian tubes and ovaries are also to be removed, they are similarly detached from their ligaments and blood supply. All tissue to be extracted is then removed through an incision made in the vagina.The smaller incisions involved in LAVH typically result in less scarring, pain, and shorter recovery time compared to an abdominal hysterectomy, which requires both a vaginal incision and a larger 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) incision in the abdomen. However, not all hysterectomies can be performed using LAVH; some conditions may require a traditional abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy instead.
