Spotlight Video | Laparoscopic Surgery | Yi-Horng Lee, MD

What is Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the abdominal and pelvic regions. It involves a laparoscope, a thin, telescopic instrument with a video camera, which is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. Surgeons may make additional small incisions to insert other surgical instruments, allowing them to view and operate on internal organs in real time.

A laparoscopy is often recommended when other diagnostic tests cannot determine the cause of a condition. Additionally, healthcare providers use this technique to collect tissue samples (biopsies) for further testing.

Common Uses of Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is used for various diagnostic and surgical procedures, including:

• Cyst, fibroid, stone, and polyp removal

• Small tumor removal

• Biopsies

• Tubal ligation and reversal

• Ectopic pregnancy removal

• Endometriosis surgery

• Urethral and vaginal reconstruction

• Orchiopexy (testicle correction surgery)

• Rectopexy (rectal prolapse repair)

• Hernia repair surgery

• Esophageal anti-reflux surgery (fundoplication)

• Gastric bypass surgery

• Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)

• Appendix removal (appendectomy)

Is Laparoscopy a Major Surgery?

Although laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, it can still be considered major surgery depending on the complexity of the operation. Your surgeon can provide details about the specific procedure, how to prepare, and what to expect during recovery.

Laparoscopy vs. Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery is similar to a diagnostic laparoscopy, but instead of merely examining internal organs, it involves performing surgical procedures using specialized instruments. While some conditions may still require traditional open surgery, laparoscopy is often preferred due to its cost-effectiveness and improved outcomes.

Preparing for a Laparoscopy

Before undergoing a laparoscopy, follow these preparation guidelines:

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke after midnight before your surgery.

• Wear loose-fitting clothing for comfort post-procedure.

• Wear low-heeled shoes to avoid instability from anesthesia.

• Remove all jewelry and nail polish.

• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During the laparoscopy:

1. You will be placed under general anesthesia.

2. A small incision is made near your belly button or under your rib cage.

3. Gas is pumped into the abdomen to expand the area for better visibility.

4. The laparoscope is inserted, and additional instruments may be used if necessary.

5. After the procedure, the gas is removed, and the incisions are closed.

A diagnostic laparoscopy usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, while a laparoscopic surgery may take one to three hours, depending on the complexity.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery room for about an hour. Common post-surgery experiences include:

• Mild pain from the gas used during the procedure.

• Shoulder pain due to residual gas pressure.

• Internal soreness and tenderness around the incisions.

Before leaving the hospital, schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery:

• Less trauma to internal organs

• Reduced blood loss

• Smaller scars

• Lower risk of infection

• Shorter hospital stays

• Faster recovery

• Less pain requiring minimal medication

Potential Risks and Complications

Although generally safe, laparoscopy carries some risks, including:

• Bleeding from the incision site

• Organ or blood vessel injury

• Anesthesia-related complications

• Infection

• Abdominal swelling

• Rare cases of blood clots leading to stroke or heart attack

Recovery at Home

Once home, follow these steps to aid recovery:

• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.

• Keep incisions clean and dry.

• Follow your provider’s bathing instructions.

• Remove bandages and Steri-Strips™ as advised.

• Expect minor changes in urine color if a dye was used during the procedure.

• Be patient with bowel movements, as digestion may take a few days to return to normal.

Returning to Normal Activities

• Work: Most patients can return to work within three days, but consult your doctor.

• Exercise: Light activities can be resumed within a week, depending on the type of surgery.

• Sexual Activity: Timing depends on the procedure; check with your doctor.

When to Call Your Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Fever or chills

• Redness, swelling, or unusual discharge from incisions

• Vomiting

• Difficulty urinating

Laparoscopy is a revolutionary procedure that allows healthcare providers to diagnose and treat various abdominal and pelvic conditions with minimal invasiveness. While it has numerous advantages, it’s still a surgical procedure that requires proper preparation and recovery. Always consult your healthcare provider to understand your specific case and ensure the best possible outcome.

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