What Do You Mean by Laparoscopy?
Speaking about laparoscopy is a way to have a closer look at the organs located in the abdomen as well as the reproductive system. It can also be used to take samples of tissues for biopsy. During the procedure, the doctor will use a laparoscope and move it through a tiny incision in the abdomen. Based on the condition, a laparoscopy can be used to see organs like the pancreas, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, stomach, spleen and gallbladder. This procedure is performed after applying a general anaesthetic.
When is This Surgery Conducted?
Surgeons can perform laparoscopy surgery to identify and treat different medical conditions.
- Diagnosis
Some imaging tests, such as MRIs or CT scans, can offer a lot of information, but they are not 100 per cent correct. Sometimes, taking a look physically can be a good option. For instance, to detect endometriosis. This is a common reason behind lower abdominal pain that can be easily diagnosed through laparoscopy. Besides, doctors also use it for biopsies. Some health issues, like cancer, require a biopsy to confirm the presence of the issue and find out the type of cancer it is.
- Treatment
Surgeons use this procedure for surgery. For instance, to remove the appendix and to treat gallbladder issues. Besides, it is also used to treat different uterus problems.
Laparoscopy can diagnose and treat chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease and treat some causes of infertility. Besides, surgeons also use it to remove ovarian cysts, uterus, fibroids, and lymph nodes. Issues like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence can also be treated using a laparoscope.
The Procedure
Before the procedure, your doctor will give a general anaesthetic to prevent pain and relax the muscles. Then a small incision will be created near your navel. Now, your doctor will insert a laparoscope through that incision. A gas will be applied to inflate the stomach so that the doctor can easily see the organs. In some cases, your doctor may use different surgical devices to take samples of tissues. If required, a second incision will be made at the pubic area to insert other instruments for minor surgeries. After the surgery, you will be advised to stay for a few hours in the recovery room.
Benefits of Laparoscopy Surgery
Compared to open surgery, laparoscopy can offer many benefits. That’s why most doctors first suggest this treatment option to treat issues related to your stomach or uterus. Some of the benefits of this procedure to consider are:
- Faster recovery time. You can return to your regular life after around 3 weeks of the treatment.
- It creates smaller scars.
- There will be less bleeding.
- You will not feel much pain.
- The complications are temporary
- Less time in the clinic
It may be noted that the risks of this procedure will vary based on the surgery type, current health issues, and age of the person having a laparoscopy.
Recovery After a Laparoscopy
Well, different symptoms may develop for a few days after your laparoscopy. Some of them are:
- Abdominal bloating
- Fatigue
- Discomfort in the area of the incision
- A sore throat
- Back or shoulder pain due to the presence of carbon dioxide in the diaphragm.
Pain should resolve within two to three days. However, you should visit your doctor if you develop any of the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Vaginal bleeding
- Vomiting or nausea
- Severe pain
- Infection
People can generally return to their normal lifestyle after one to three days of laparoscopy. But you should avoid doing heavy exercise, lifting or swimming for around 2 to 3 weeks.
Laparoscopy can be used to perform Tubal Sterilization. Besides, it is also an effective way to conduct a hysterectomy. In this procedure, the uterus is removed from inside the body. It can be removed through the vagina or in pieces creating a small incision.
As per the doctors, the process may take around one to three weeks. But you should keep in mind that the recovery process will vary from one person to another. Take proper rest after your laparoscopy.
Following a laparoscopy, it is normal to feel discomfort. Some patients have reported that they develop pain in the abdomen, neck and shoulders after the procedure. This generally happens due to the gas used for the procedure. However, these issues would resolve within 24 hours.
You should consult your doctor if you develop symptoms like fainting, fever, pain, vaginal bleeding, discharge from the incision and inability to empty the bladder.
This happens due to the presence of a small amount of gas under your diaphragm. However, after 24 hours, you may not experience the pain.
