Laparoscopic Surgery

What is laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique using small incisions and a camera (laparoscope), it provides a clear view of abdominal and pelvic organs and allows treatment without large cuts.

Why might you need laparoscopy?

1. Diagnose chronic pelvic pain or infertility.
2. Treat endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy.
3. Perform sterilization, hysterectomy, or cancer procedures.
4. Treat pelvic floor disorders like incontinence or prolapse.

What happens during surgery?

Under general anesthesia, a small incision is made in or near the belly button, the abdomen is filled with gas, and the laparoscope is inserted to view organs, additional instruments may be used to perform surgery.

Most procedures are done as in patients and require short hospital stay, some procedures can be done as outpatient.

What to expect after surgery

Recovery includes rest and limited activity for a few days, you may feel tired, have soreness, shoulder pain, or nausea.

Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or issues at the incision site.

Benefits and risks

Benefits:

1. Smaller incisions and scars.
2. Less pain and faster recovery.
3. Shorter hospital stay.

Risks:

1. Bleeding, infection, or hernia at incision sites.
2. Damage to organs.
3. Complications from anesthesia.

In rare cases, surgery may switch to open surgery if needed for safety or cancer removal.

If needed, other small incisions may be made in the abdomen for suraical instruments

Illustration:

Laparoscope and instruments placed through the abdomen. A uterine manipulator helps position pelvic organs.