Bowel Endometriosis

Bowel endometriosis is a type of endometriosis where endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows on or within the bowel.

Bowel endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows on or within the bowel. This abnormal growth can cause a range of symptoms, including painful bowel movements, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. In severe cases, bowel endometriosis can lead to bowel obstruction or perforation, which may require emergency surgery. Diagnosis of bowel endometriosis typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, and a surgical procedure called laparoscopy.

Treatment may involve medications to manage pain and inflammation, as well as surgery to remove the endometrial tissue and repair any damage to the bowel.

Small and Large Intestine (Image source: ShareAlike 4.0 International)

Two Forms of Bowel Endometriosis

There are two forms of bowel endometriosis:

Superficial bowel endometriosis: In this form, endometrial tissue grows on the surface of the bowel, and may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.
Deep infiltrating bowel endometriosis: This is a more severe form, where endometrial tissue grows deeply into the bowel wall, and may cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. In some cases, deep infiltrating bowel endometriosis can lead to bowel obstruction or perforation, which requires emergency medical attention.

Causes of Bowel Endometriosis

The exact causes of this condition are not fully understood, several theories have been proposed. One theory is that during menstruation, the blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity, where the cells implant and grow on the bowel. Another theory suggests that endometrial cells may spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to reach the bowel. Hormones, such as estrogen, may also play a role in the development of bowel endometriosis, as they can stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue.

In addition to these factors, genetic predisposition may also contribute to the development of bowel endometriosis. Studies have suggested that certain genetic variations may increase the risk of developing endometriosis. Other risk factors for endometriosis include early onset of menstruation, heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, and a family history of the condition. However, it’s important to note that not all women with these risk factors will develop bowel endometriosis, and some women without any known risk factors may still develop the condition. More research is needed to fully understand the causes of bowel endometriosis.

Symptoms of Bowel Endometriosis

Bowel endometriosis can cause a range of symptoms, which may vary in severity depending on the extent of the endometrial tissue growth. Some common symptoms of bowel endometriosis include:

Abdominal pain or cramping: This can be mild to severe and may be felt in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
Bloating: Bowel endometriosis can cause the bowel to become distended, leading to bloating and discomfort.
Changes in bowel movements: These can include constipation, diarrhea, or both, and may be accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping.
Rectal bleeding: In some cases, bowel endometriosis can cause bleeding from the rectum, especially during or after bowel movements.
Pain during bowel movements: This can be a sharp, stabbing pain or a more dull ache, and may be accompanied by cramping.
Pain during sexual intercourse: Bowel endometriosis can cause pain or discomfort during sex, particularly during deep penetration.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, and not all women with bowel endometriosis will experience all of these symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to request an appointment with New York Gynecology Endometriosis (NYGE) to determine the underlying cause and appropriate endometriosis treatment.

Diagnosis of Bowel Endometriosis

Around 10%-12% of women of reproductive age are affected by endometriosis, which is usually diagnosed in women in their 30s. If you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, your doctor will begin by inquiring about your medical history and symptoms, and then conduct a pelvic exam. Depending on the findings, imaging tests may be recommended to provide more information about any cysts or tissue damage associated with endometriosis. These imaging tests may include:

A transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound involves inserting a wand-like device into your vagina or rectum, which emits sound waves to create images of your organs. While this test cannot diagnose endometriosis, it can locate lesions that may be caused by endometriosis once they have grown large enough to be detected.
MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is a diagnostic test that produces detailed images of your organs and tissues by using a combination of a magnetic field and radio waves.
Laparoscopy is a procedure in which a surgeon creates a small incision near your belly button and inserts a laparoscope, a thin viewing tool, to examine your internal organs. This procedure is sometimes used to remove lesions caused by endometriosis.
Barium enema is a type of X-ray that helps doctors to identify changes or abnormalities in your large intestine (colon). To perform this test, a liquid and barium mixture is injected into your rectum through a small tube. This mixture expands your intestine and air is pumped in to improve image quality.

Surgical Methods for the Treatment of Bowel Endometriosis

The surgical methods for treating bowel endometriosis depend on the specific type and severity of the anomaly, as well as the individual patient’s circumstances and reproductive goals.

The surgical treatment for bowel endometriosis may involve laparoscopic excision surgery, bowel resection surgery or robotic-assisted surgery.

Laparoscopic Excision Surgery

Laparoscopic excision surgery involves the removal of the endometrial tissue using a laparoscope, a thin viewing tool with a light and camera attached to it. This minimally invasive surgery allows for a quicker recovery time and less scarring than traditional open surgery.

It’s recommended to request an appointment with New York Gynecology Endometriosis (NYGE) to obtain an accurate estimate of the cost.

Bowel Resection Surgery

Bowel resection surgery involves removing a portion of the bowel affected by the endometriosis and reattaching the remaining healthy bowel.

This surgery may be necessary if the endometriosis has caused significant damage to the bowel or if the affected area is too large to be removed by excision alone. In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be needed to allow the bowel to heal properly.

Your doctor will help determine the most appropriate surgical treatment for your individual case of bowel endometriosis.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery is an advanced surgical technique used to treat bowel endometriosis. This technique uses robotic arms controlled by the surgeon to perform the surgery with greater precision and control. The surgeon makes small incisions and inserts the robotic arms and a camera to visualize the surgical field. The surgeon then uses a console to control the robotic arms and perform the surgery.

Robotic surgery is beneficial for bowel endometriosis as it allows the surgeon to make precise and delicate movements, which can be particularly important when working in the delicate tissues of the bowel. It also results in less scarring and pain, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. However, not all patients are suitable for robotic surgery, and the decision to use this technique depends on several factors, including the location and severity of the endometriosis.

Pankaj Singhal, MD, MS, MHCM

Master Surgeon in Robotic Surgery

Dr. Pankaj Singhal, a globally recognized endometriosis surgeon, possesses over 25 years of expertise in laparoscopic excision surgery, enabling him to tackle even the most challenging endometriosis cases with confidence. Dr. Pankaj treats patients with diverse endometriosis-related conditions, ranging from ovarian endometriomas to severe deep infiltrating endometriosis that affects the bowels and other organs.

Dr. Pankaj prioritizes minimally invasive surgery and provides comprehensive personal care. Additionally, he is the owner and founder of New York Gynecology and Endometriosis (NYGE), and has dedicated his life to advocating for, respecting, and treating women suffering from this little-known disease. He is one of the few surgeons in the entire United States who have completed over 5,718 robot-assisted gynecologic surgeries.

We Accept Most Major Insurance Plans

Convenient Billing Options for Comprehensive Coverage.

Surgeries are typically covered by health insurance. However, the extent of coverage can vary depending on the specific insurance plan and policy. Some insurance plans may cover a broad range of surgical procedures, including both elective and necessary surgeries, while others may have limitations or exclusions for certain procedures.

In some cases, certain insurance plans or programs may fully cover the cost of surgery, leaving the patient with no financial responsibility.

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