ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the different laparoscopic urogynecological surgical procedures currently being performed including newer techniques that still await medium- to long-term results regarding their efficacy and safety. Laparoscopic surgery has played an increasingly important role in urogynecology over the last 10 years and is becoming even more widely adopted, especially with the emerging concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of vaginal mesh techniques for prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. There is increasing evidence supporting the use of the laparoscopic approach to urogynecological procedures. The chapter outlines the relevant anatomy encountered during laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Robotic surgery has been suggested as an alternative to the long learning curve of “straight-stick” laparoscopic surgery as it is easier to learn but unfortunately is significantly more expensive, which has restricted its widespread adoption.
