Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling for PCOS Management

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure evaluated for individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who do not respond to first-line ovulation induction medications. At Dr. Abdul Basith’s practice, LOD is considered as a surgical option to address anovulation associated with PCOS.

Women with PCOS frequently present with irregular or absent ovulation (anovulation). The LOD procedure involves making small abdominal incisions to insert a laparoscope and instruments, through which micro-punctures are made in the ovarian stroma using diathermy or laser. This intervention aims to reduce androgen-producing tissue within the ovaries, which is associated with hormonal imbalance in PCOS.

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is categorized as a second-line surgical procedure for individuals with clomiphene-resistant PCOS or where ovulation induction agents have proven ineffective. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient or short-stay setting, with individual recovery timelines depending on patient factors.

LOD serves as an established surgical modality in managing anovulatory infertility secondary to PCOS. Individual clinical responses vary, and procedural indications, potential risks (such as adhesion formation or ovarian reserve impact), and subsequent management options are evaluated during clinical consultation.