What is laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy, also known as diagnostic laparoscopy, is a surgical diagnostic procedure used to examine the organs inside the abdomen. It’s a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure that requires only small incisions. Laparoscopy uses an instrument called a laparoscope to look at the abdominal organs. A laparoscope is a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front. The instrument is inserted through an incision in the abdominal wall. As it moves along, the camera sends images to a video monitor.
Laparoscopy allows your doctor to see inside your body in real time, without open surgery. Your doctor also can obtain biopsy samples during this procedure.
Why is laparoscopy performed?
Laparoscopy is often used to identify and diagnose the source of pelvic or abdominal pain. It’s usually performed when noninvasive methods are unable to help with diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend laparoscopy to examine the following organs:
- appendix
- gallbladder
- liver
- pancreas
- small intestine and large intestine (colon)
- spleen
- stomach
- pelvic or reproductive organs
Laparoscopy can help detect an abdominal mass or a tumour, fluid in the abdominal cavity, liver disease, the effectiveness of certain treatments, the degree to which particular cancer has progressed and treatment can commence immediately after diagnosis.
What are the risks of laparoscopy?
Bleeding, infection and damage to organs in your abdomen are the most common risks associated with laparoscopy.
Signs to watch out for
If you experience or notice the following, it is important to contact your health care provider.
- fevers or chills
- abdominal pain that becomes more intense over time
- redness, swelling, bleeding, or drainage at the incision sites
- continuous nausea or vomiting
- a persistent cough
- shortness of breath
- inability to urinate
- lightheadedness
How is laparoscopy performed?
Laparoscopy is usually done as an outpatient procedure. This means that you’ll be able to go home the same day as your surgery. It may be performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical centre.
During laparoscopy, the surgeon makes an incision below your belly button and then inserts a small tube called a cannula. The cannula is used to inflate your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas. This gas allows your doctor to see your abdominal organs more clearly.
After the procedure is done, the instruments are removed. Your incisions are then closed with stitches or surgical tape. Bandages may be placed over the incisions.
How long does it take to recover from laparoscopy?
When the surgery is over, you’ll be observed for several hours before you’re released from the hospital. Your vital signs, such your breathing and heart rate, will be monitored closely. Hospital staff will also check for any adverse reactions to the anaesthesia or the procedure, as well as monitor for prolonged bleeding.
The timing of your release will vary. It depends on:
your overall physical condition
the type of anaesthesia used
your body’s reaction to the surgery
In some cases, you may have to remain in the hospital overnight.
To ensure a smoother recovery;
Begin light activity as soon as you’re able, in order to reduce your risk of blood clots.
Get more sleep than you normally do.
Use throat lozenges to ease the pain of a sore throat.
Wear loose-fitting clothes.
References
- Healthline. Laparoscopy. Accessed on 27th September 2018.