Nerve Sparing Surgery

Nerve-Sparing Surgery for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, and other areas in the pelvis.

Endometriosis can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pelvic pain, especially during periods
• Painful sex
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Fatigue
• Infertility

In some cases, endometriosis can also cause nerve pain. This is because the endometriosis lesions can grow near or on nerves, which can cause them to become irritated or inflamed.  Some nerves that can be involved include:

• Hypogastric plexus : This is a network of nerves that lies in the pelvis. It supplies nerves to the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum.
• Pudendal nerve : This is a nerve that supplies nerves to the genitals and the lower part of the rectum.
• Sacral plexus : This is a network of nerves that lies in the lower back. It supplies nerves to the lower back, legs, and feet.
• Lumbar plexus (Obturator Nerve): This is a network of nerves that lies in the lower back. It supplies nerves to the lower back, abdomen, and legs.

The nerve pain associated with endometriosis can be severe and debilitating. It can make it difficult to go about daily activities, such as work, school, and relationships.

Nerve-sparing surgery is a type of surgery that is designed to remove the endometriosis lesions while minimising damage to the nerves. It involves dissecting out the nerves and removing the endometriosis from on or around them. This type of surgery needs knowledge of the anatomy and skill to excise the endometriosis lesions.  It can help to relieve the nerve pain associated with endometriosis.

Nerve-sparing surgery is becoming increasingly popular as more and more women are seeking relief from the pain of endometriosis. The surgery is performed laparoscopically (key-hole), which means that it is minimally invasive and usually has a shorter recovery time.

If you are suffering from endometriosis and are worried about nerve involvment please let us know and we can discuss treatment options with you.

We hope this information is helpful. Please let us know if you have any other questions.