Vulvar edema as a complication of laparoscopic surgery

Vulvar edema occurred in three women within 24 hours after operative laparoscopy. In addition to local swelling and discomfort, inability to void was a common complaint. All three patients were treated with Foley catheter urinary drainage, local application of ice packs, and bedrest for 1 to 2 days with spontaneous resolution of the edema. We conclude that vulvar edema is a possible complication of endoscopy. Although it may require hospitalization because of inability to void, the condition is self-limited.