Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları is a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology. She specializes particularly in HPV treatment and cervical cancer prevention, providing holistic healthcare to her patients in the areas of pregnancy monitoring, genital aesthetics, and gynecological surgery.
By combining her academic background with clinical experience, she offers every patient an evidence-based, personalized treatment approach.
Laparoscopic surgery (closed surgery) is a minimally invasive surgical method that has become a cornerstone of modern gynecological surgery. Performed through 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen using a camera and specialized surgical instruments, this technique offers numerous advantages compared to open surgery.
In modern gynecological surgical practice, the laparoscopic approach is preferred in line with the guidelines of the AAGL (American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists) and the ESGE (European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy), taking into account the patient’s clinical condition, the characteristics of the disease, and the surgeon’s experience. With her expertise in advanced laparoscopic surgery at her clinic in Nişantaşı, Istanbul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları offers her patients minimally invasive treatment options with rapid recovery.
Information Note
Laparoscopic surgery has revolutionized gynecology. Patients are typically discharged within 1-2 days and can return to their normal lives within a week. Since the incisions are as small as 5-10 mm, it also offers cosmetic advantages. For specific treatments, you can also visit our Myomectomy page.
What Is Laparoscopic Surgery and How Is It Performed?
Laparoscopic surgery (closed surgery) is a minimally invasive surgical method performed by inserting a thin telescopic camera (laparoscope) and specialized surgical instruments through 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen. Since the 1980s, this technique has revolutionized many fields of surgery, particularly gynecology.
During laparoscopic surgery, the abdominal cavity is inflated with safe carbon dioxide gas, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen in detail. The high-resolution image from the camera is transmitted to a monitor, and the surgeon operates on a real-time, magnified image.
Stages of the Surgical Process:
1. Anesthesia: The patient is put under general anesthesia and does not feel the operation.
2. Pneumoperitoneum: The abdominal cavity is inflated with CO2 gas to create the surgical field.
3. Trocar Placement: Trocars (specialized cannulas) with a diameter of 5-10 mm are inserted through the navel and the sides of the abdomen.
4. Visualization and Surgery: The procedure is performed using the laparoscope camera and specialized instruments, while the surgical field is monitored on the screen.
5. Closure: The instruments are removed, the gas is released, and the small incisions are closed with 1-2 sutures or surgical glue.
Important Information
Laparoscopic surgery is a method that requires specialized expertise and a strong technological infrastructure. When performed by an experienced surgeon with modern equipment, the success rates are very high. Not every condition is suitable for laparoscopy; therefore, the appropriate method is determined through a detailed evaluation for each patient.
In Which Cases Is Laparoscopy Used?
Laparoscopic surgery is successfully used in modern gynecology for the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions. The method can be applied both for diagnostic purposes (diagnostic laparoscopy) and therapeutic purposes (operative laparoscopy).
1. Gynecological Conditions
- Fibroids: Removal of uterine fibroids (laparoscopic myomectomy). For details, you can visit our Myomectomy page.
- Ovarian cysts: Removal of all types of cysts, including chocolate cysts.
- Endometriosis: Excision of endometriotic foci. For details, you can visit our Chocolate Cyst Treatment page.
- Pelvic adhesions: Release of intra-abdominal adhesions.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: Reconstructive procedures such as sacrocolpopexy. For details, you can visit our Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment page.
2. Reproductive Health and Infertility
- Tubal evaluation: Checking the patency of the fallopian tubes
- Ectopic pregnancy: Removal of pregnancy located in the tube
- Ovarian drilling in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Diagnostic laparoscopy for infertility: In cases of unexplained infertility. You can visit our Infertility Treatment page.
3. Oncological (Cancer) Surgery
- Early-stage uterine cancer (endometrial cancer)
- Diagnosis and staging of ovarian tumors
- Lymph node sampling (staging)
- In selected cases of cervical cancer
4. Emergency Surgical Conditions
- Ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary)
- Ruptured ectopic pregnancy and internal bleeding
- Acute pelvic infections (abscess drainage)
- Intra-abdominal emergency interventions
Important Information
Not every condition is suitable for laparoscopy. In particular, open surgery may be preferred in cases of very large tumors, advanced-stage cancer, extensive intra-abdominal adhesions, or due to the patient’s general condition. The most appropriate method is determined through a personalized evaluation. You can contact our clinic for detailed information and assessment.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery offers numerous advantages over conventional open surgery. These advantages manifest themselves in different aspects, such as patient comfort, recovery time, and aesthetic outcomes. The main advantages of laparoscopy are examined below in three categories.
1. Patient Comfort
Less Pain, Faster Mobilization
Due to the small incisions, the patient experiences less postoperative pain and can become mobile more quickly.
- Small Incisions: 3-4 small incisions of 5-10 mm (compared to 10-20 cm in open surgery).
- Less Need for Painkillers: Patients generally manage with mild pain relievers.
- Early Mobilization: Patients can stand within 6-8 hours after surgery.
- Quick Return to Eating: Normal nutrition can be resumed the next day.
2. Medical Advantages
Lower Complication Rates, Faster Recovery
Thanks to minimal trauma, the risk of complications is reduced, and the recovery process is accelerated.
- Lower Risk of Infection: Small incisions provide fewer opportunities for bacterial entry.
- Less Blood Loss: Minimal bleeding through controlled surgery.
- Intra-Abdominal Adhesions: Significantly lower risk of adhesions compared to open surgery.
- Faster Recovery: Return to full activity within 1-2 weeks.
- Detailed Visualization: Magnified imaging through a high-resolution camera.
3. Social and Aesthetic
Quick Return to Work and Cosmetic Results
Laparoscopy enables the patient to quickly return to daily routines and social life.
- Short Hospital Stay: Discharge within 1-2 days (compared to 5-7 days with open surgery).
- Quick Return to Work: Office work can be resumed within 1-2 weeks.
- Aesthetic Scarring: The 5-10 mm incisions heal with virtually no visible scars.
- Cosmetic Results: No visible scars in a bikini or at the beach.
- Psychological Advantage: The patient quickly returns to a normal life rhythm.
Recovery and General Risks After Laparoscopy
The recovery process after laparoscopic surgery is much shorter compared to conventional open surgery. Patients are typically discharged within 1-2 days and return to their normal lives within 1-2 weeks. However, like any surgery, laparoscopy also carries certain potential risks.
Typical Recovery Timeline
- First 6 hours: Post-anesthesia observation; fluid intake begins.
- First 24 hours: Standing up, light walking, and soft foods.
- Days 1-2: Discharge and rest at home.
- Week 1: Light activities, light work, and a follow-up examination.
- Weeks 2-3: Return to office work and normal activities.
- Weeks 4-6: Doctor’s approval is required for sexual intercourse and intense exercise.
Temporary Symptoms That May Occur After Surgery
- Shoulder pain: Caused by CO2 gas, resolves within 1-2 days
- Mild abdominal pain and bloating: Resolves within 2-4 days
- Fatigue and weakness (may last up to 1 week)
- Nausea (anesthesia-related, short-lived)
- Mild vaginal bleeding (normal after gynecological laparoscopy)
Possible General Risks and Complications
- Anesthesia-related complications (as in any general surgery)
- Trocar injuries (damage to adjacent organs — 0.5% risk)
- Bleeding: Vascular injury (rare but may be difficult to control)
- Formation of intra-abdominal adhesions (much less than in open surgery)
- Skin infection (at the incision site, treated with antibiotics)
- Conversion to open surgery: Sometimes required for safety reasons (2-5%)
- Risk of thrombosis (blood clots in the leg veins)
⚠️ When to Consult a Physician
- Fever above 38°C or chills
- Redness, discharge, or foul odor at the wound site
- Severe and persistent abdominal pain
- Excessive or increasing vaginal bleeding
- Burning sensation when urinating or inability to urinate
- Swelling or pain in the leg (a sign of thrombosis)
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
Important Reminder
In experienced hands, laparoscopy is a highly safe surgical method. The overall complication rate is below 1-2%. The vast majority of patients recover without complications and quickly return to their normal lives. Detailed preoperative evaluation and preparation maximize the success rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does laparoscopic surgery take?
The duration of laparoscopic surgery varies depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. While diagnostic laparoscopy takes 30-60 minutes, therapeutic laparoscopy for fibroids or cysts can range from 1 to 3 hours. Complex endometriosis or oncological cases may take 3-5 hours. This duration does not include pre-anesthesia preparation and post-anesthesia recovery.
When can I return to work after laparoscopy?
The time required to return to work after laparoscopy depends on the type of work and the extent of the surgical procedure. For desk-based work, 7-10 days are recommended, while 2-3 weeks are advised for jobs involving light physical activity, and 4-6 weeks for heavy work or sports. A faster return is possible after diagnostic laparoscopy. For a detailed assessment, it is best to consult your doctor at your postoperative follow-up.
How much safer is laparoscopy compared to open surgery?
In experienced hands, laparoscopy is safer than open surgery. Blood loss is 70% lower, the risk of infection is 3 to 5 times lower, and the risk of postoperative adhesions is approximately 50% lower. However, in certain cases (very large tumors, advanced-stage cancer, or extensive adhesions), open surgery may be safer. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate method based on each patient’s clinical condition.
Will scars remain after laparoscopy?
The incision scars after laparoscopy are very small and generally fade over time. Since the trocar entry points are 5-10 mm, they do not leave noticeable scars after healing. The incision in the navel area is concealed within the natural fold of the navel, while incisions in the lower abdomen remain hidden under the bikini line or beneath clothing. With proper wound care, the scars become almost invisible within 3-6 months.
I have had previous abdominal surgery; can I still undergo laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy can be performed in patients who have had previous abdominal surgery, but special precautions are required. Previous surgeries may have caused intra-abdominal adhesions, which can make trocar placement more difficult. For this reason, an experienced surgeon may use alternative entry methods and different techniques, such as starting with an open approach and then transitioning to laparoscopy. With detailed preoperative evaluation, a safe laparoscopy can be performed.
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References
The medical content on this page has been prepared based on the current clinical guidelines and scientific publications of international and national authoritative organizations. As an important feature, multiple scientific publications directly authored by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları in the field of laparoscopic surgery are included as references.
ACOG/AAGL Joint Committee Opinion: Minimally Invasive Gynecological Procedures
Authors: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) & American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) | Publication: Obstet Gynecol 2020 | Source Type: International Joint Clinical Committee Opinion
AAGL/ESGE Joint Clinical Practice Guideline: Laparoscopic and Hysteroscopic Procedures
Authors: American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) & European Society of Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) | Publication: J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2017 | Source Type: Joint Clinical Guideline by Two Organizations (PubMed PMC, Full Text)
RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 62: Laparoscopic Adnexal Surgery in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) & British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE) | Source Type: Green-top Clinical Guideline (PDF)
ESHRE Clinical Practice Guideline: Laparoscopic Endometriosis Surgery and Fertility
Author: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) | Publication: Human Reproduction Open 2022 | Source Type: International Clinical Practice Guideline (Full Text)
The Effects of Laparoscopic Cystectomy on Ovarian Reserve in Endometrioma and Dermoid Cysts
Authors: Karadağ C, Demircan S, Turgut A, Çalışkan E (Turkish academics) | Publication: Turkish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (TJOD Journal) 2020 | Source Type: Turkish Peer-Reviewed Clinical Study (PubMed PMC)
The Role of Laparoscopy in Modern Fertility Practice: A Case-Control Study of 600 Patients
Publication: International Journal of Reproductive BioMedicine 2017 | Study: Effectiveness of laparoscopy/hysteroscopy in 600 infertile women | Source Type: Peer-Reviewed Clinical Study (PubMed PMC)
The Role of Laparoscopic Surgery in Gynecological Congenital Anomalies
Publication: Journal of Clinical Medicine 2025 | Source Type: Peer-Reviewed Systematic Review (PubMed PMC, Full Text)
⭐ Academic Publications by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları on Laparoscopic Surgery
Directly related to the topic of this page — three different scientific publications authored by the doctor in the fields of laparoscopic cystectomy, laparoscopic hemi-hysterectomy, and uterine surgery
Dermoid Tumor Coexisting with Endometrioma in a Single Ovary: A Case Report of the Laparoscopic Approach
Authors: Kıyak H, Kadiroğulları P, Karacan T, Seçkin KD, Karataş S | Publication: CRSLS – Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons, April 2019 | Source Type: Peer-Reviewed Laparoscopic Surgery Case Report
📍 This publication is a case report directly focused on laparoscopic ovarian cyst surgery. It demonstrates the value of the laparoscopic approach in complex adnexal pathologies.
OHVIRA Syndrome and Pyometra: Tips and Tricks for Laparoscopic Hemi-Hysterectomy
Authors: Kıyak H, Türkgeldi LS, Yücel B, Karacan T, Kadiroğulları P, Seçkin KD | Publication: Fertility and Sterility 2019;112(1):177-179 | Source Type: High-Impact Peer-Reviewed Journal
📍 This publication addresses complex laparoscopic surgical techniques in detail in a rare congenital anomaly. It is an important publication that demonstrates expertise in advanced laparoscopic surgery.
Abdominal Hysterectomy with a Uterine Manipulator: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Kıyak H, Karacan T, Özyürek ES, Türkgeldi LS, Kadiroğulları P, Seçkin KD | Publication: Journal of Investigative Surgery 2021 | Source Type: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial (PubMed)
Important Note
The information on this page is intended for general informational purposes and does not replace individual medical advice. For personal questions, diagnosis, or surgical planning related to laparoscopic surgery (closed surgery), you should always consult your specialist gynecologist. The content of this page has been prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Kadiroğulları in light of clinical experience and current scientific literature.
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