Various surgical methods have greatly evolved over time, and technical advancement in the medical industry has introduced much better and safer surgical methods. Well, laparoscopy is one of them. The examination of the internal pelvic structure can offer crucial information about infertility and some common gynecologic problem. This is where laparoscopy comes to play. This can be used for both operatives as well as diagnostic purposes.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy can help a physician to detect different gynaecological issues. Some of the problems that can be detected through laparoscopy are uterine fibroids, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts and other structural issues. If the patient has symptoms of pelvic disease or a history of pelvic infection, then the physician may suggest this procedure. Sometimes, a diagnostic laparoscopy is suggested after the completion of initial infertility.
Operative Laparoscopy
This is used to treat various abdominal disorders. While conducting this, the surgeon inserts other instruments along with a laparoscope, like scissors, probes, laser instruments, biopsy forceps, grasping instruments, etc. Some issues that can be treated or corrected through this procedure are treating scar tissue, ovarian cysts removal, opening blocked tubes, treating ectopic pregnancies, etc. It can also be used to remove damaged fallopian tubes or diseased ovaries.
Symptoms That Indicate the Patients Need Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is used to diagnose and correct health issues related to gastroenterology, gynaecology, urology, etc. Some common symptoms of this procedure include:
- Symptoms related to undetected abdominal pain.
- Endometriosis symptoms- Pain along with the menstrual flow.
- Pelvic inflammatory issue symptoms- Pain accompanied by inflammation in the patient's lower abdomen area due to infection of the urinary or genital tract.
- Appendicitis symptoms- Inflammation and pain in the lower abdomen due to the appendix infection.
- Ovarian cysts symptoms- Severe pain near the pelvic area due to the ovary's cyst formation.
Understanding the Laparoscopy Procedure
This is a less-invasive procedure carried out under an expert surgeon's supervision. The procedure is conducted after the application of general anaesthesia, and during the procedure, the patient remains unconscious.
The surgeon may advise the patient to avoid drinking or eating for around 6 to 10 hours before the surgery. The patient may also need to stop consuming blood thinner for a few days.
In the procedure, the surgeon inserts a small tube, known as a catheter, to collect the urine. A small needle is used to fill the abdomen with gas, carbon dioxide gas. A small cut is made in the naval area, and the surgeon then inserts a laparoscope. The device then sends images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see the organs.
For an operative laparoscopy, the surgeon will make another small cut for the insertion of surgical instruments. During the surgery, the laparoscopy is used as a guide.
After the completion of the procedure, the instruments are removed along with the gas. The incisions or cuts are stitched.
Advances In this Procedure
In some cases, robotic surgery is used in gynaecological laparoscopy. It has been tested that robotic arms are much steadier compared to human hands and good at fine manipulations. A newer approach is micro laparoscopy. The patient won't be completely unconscious.
Benefits of Laparoscopy
- Small scars
- Less tissue cutting
- Faster recovery
- Less pain during healing
- Less risk of infection
The results of laparoscopy are permanent, and the success and accuracy are more. Patients can even get back to their normal life within 4 to 5 days after the treatment. However, they should follow their surgeon's instructions properly to avoid complications.
There is no restriction regarding who can't opt for this procedure. But just like other surgical procedures, patients suffering from high blood pressure or blood sugar may not be able to go for it. On the other hand, smoking, as well as high cholesterol levels, are also red flags for this treatment.
In most cases, laparoscopy is considered a preferred surgical approach due to better recovery, faster postoperative pain reduction, shorter hospitalization, etc. The procedure is safe.
Well, in most cases, bed rest is not required. After 24 hours of the surgery, the patients can perform their daily physical activities. However, it will be better for them to take rest for around 24 to 72 hours.
Yes, it is advisable that patients should climb stairs in moderation. They should regularly walk 1km for around 5 to 6 weeks.
If the doctor detects an abnormal condition while conducting a diagnostic procedure, an operative hysteroscopy or laparoscopy can be performed to avoid the requirement for a second surgery.
Most people think laparoscopy is a minor surgery. However, it is a major surgery that has some possible major complications, such as injury to the bladder, the bowel, visceral bleeding, injury, etc. So, always prefer to get laparoscopy surgery done through a highly experienced surgeon.
