Laparoscopy

What is Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy (also called minimally invasive surgery or “keyhole surgery”) is a less invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera and specialized surgical instruments to gain access to the abdominal or pelvic cavity. Through a small incision in the abdominal wall, the surgeon is able to reach the pelvic or abdominal cavity and perform surgery without the large incisions required for traditional open surgery. Laparoscopy is also used for other procedures, such as taking tissue samples for diagnostic testing.

Preparation for Laparoscopy

Prior to undergoing laparoscopy, your doctor and the surgical team will discuss the specific risks and benefits of the procedure with you. In addition, your doctor will likely give you instructions on how to prepare for the laparoscopy procedure including:

• Abstaining from eating and drinking for a certain period of time prior to the procedure.
• Stopping certain medications or supplements that may increase your risk of bleeding.
• Notifying your doctor of any allergies and allergies to any medication or anesthesia.
• Taking a full physical exam to assess overall health.

Procedure for Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy procedures are most often performed in an outpatient setting under general or regional anesthesia, although some procedures may require a hospital admission. The procedure itself typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour and a half, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The following steps are typically included in a laparoscopy procedure:

• A tube connected to an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted through a small incision in your abdomen to allow your doctor to view your internal organs.
• Your doctor will then use specialized surgical instruments, such as forceps, scissors, or a laser, to complete the procedure.
• Once the procedure is complete, the incisions will be stitched or closed with clips, and a dressing may be applied.
• You will then be moved to a recovery room where you will be monitored for a period of time and given medications to help with pain or discomfort.

Types of Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a versatile procedure and can be used to diagnose, treat, and correct a variety of conditions. The most common types of laparoscopy include diagnostic laparoscopy, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), myomectomy (fibroid tumor removal), endometriosis treatment, abdominal hernia repair, sterilization, and bariatric (weight loss) surgery. Your doctor may use laparoscopy to explore the cause of infertility, to investigate pain or bleeding, or to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

Risks and Complications of Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, but like any surgery, there are risks. These include infection, bleeding, minimal scarring, and potential damage to surrounding organs. Talk to your doctor before the procedure to discuss these potential risks and any concerns you may have.

Why and When Is Laparoscopy Used?

Laparoscopy is most often used when traditional open surgery is too risky or undesirable. The procedure has the advantage of reduced scarring, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery time, and less pain. It is also less invasive than traditional open surgery, allowing the surgeon to focus on one specific area without having to make a large and potentially dangerous incision. Laparoscopy is most often used to diagnose and/or treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, pelvic pain, abdominal pain, and gallbladder disease. It is also often used for tissue sampling and biopsy.