Laparoscopic Morcellation; surgical technique to remove large tissue masses, uterus or fibroids

🔪 Laparoscopic Morcellation is a surgical technique used to remove large tissue masses—like the uterus or fibroids—through small incisions during minimally invasive procedures. Here's a full breakdown: 🧬 What It Is Morcellation involves cutting tissue into smaller fragments so it can be extracted through tiny laparoscopic ports. A morcellator is the device used—often with rapidly rotating blades or mechanical jaws2. Commonly used during: Laparoscopic hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) Laparoscopic myomectomy (removal of fibroids) ⚙️ How It Works Surgeons make small abdominal incisions and insert a laparoscope and instruments. The morcellator slices bulky tissue into strips or chunks for removal2. This allows for less invasive surgery, avoiding large abdominal cuts. ✅ Benefits Faster recovery and shorter hospital stays Less postoperative pain Smaller scars and better cosmetic outcomes Lower risk of infection compared to open surgery ⚠️ Risks & Controversies Tissue dissemination: Fragments of benign or malignant tissue may remain in the abdomen, potentially causing complications2. Cancer spread: Rarely, undiagnosed uterine sarcomas can be morcellated and spread throughout the abdomen, worsening prognosis3. FDA Warning: In 2014, the FDA discouraged power morcellation for uterine fibroids in peri- or postmenopausal women due to cancer risks. 🔍 Alternatives En bloc removal: Extracting the uterus or fibroids whole, avoiding morcellation. Vaginal or open surgery: May be preferred in high-risk patients. #Laparoscopic #Morcellation