After a complete preoperative physical exam the patient is given a pre-op sedative and then anesthetized for surgery. The abdominal skin is clipped and scrubbed to assure a clean surgical site. The area is then covered with a sterile surgical drape and the skin is incised with the CO2 laser.

After the skin is incised the multiple layers of the abdominal wall are incised until the surgeon has entered the abdominal cavity. Once in the abdominal cavity the uterus is located using a specialized instrument as seen in the picture on the right.

Once the uterus and ovary are located (left), the ovarian stump is clamped and then incised using the laser. Use of the laser helps to control excess bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.

The ovarian stump is then ligated (tied off) to prevent bleeding. The same procedure is then performed on the opposite ovary. The uterus is then clamped, incised, and ligated. The tissues are then replaced into the abdomen and the muscle wall is closed using absorbable sutures.

After the abdominal wall is closed with sutures the many layers of tissues beneath the skin are brought together to speed healing and allow for greater strength. Final closure of the skin then occurs. These sutures will be removed in several days.