What is a Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy, or minimally invasive surgery, is a diagnostic and surgical procedure employed to examine the abdominal and pelvic organs, particularly in women.

The procedure involves the insertion of a slender, illuminated tube equipped with a video camera, known as a laparoscope, through a tiny incision in the abdominal wall. Images captured by the camera are transmitted to a computer monitor for visualization.

A key advantage of laparoscopy is its minimally invasive nature, which entails small incisions in the abdomen. This approach typically results in shorter operating times and quicker recovery than traditional open surgery.

Laparoscopy serves various purposes, including obtaining tissue samples for biopsy and performing surgical interventions such as appendectomy (removal of the appendix) and cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder).

Why would I need a Laparoscopy?

Abdominal laparoscopy is a versatile procedure utilized to investigate various conditions affecting the abdomen and its organs, including:

1. Tumours and growths

2. Injuries

3. Internal bleeding

4. Infections

5. Unexplained abdominal pain

6. Blockages

7. Other abdominal conditions

Laparoscopy is often recommended when conventional diagnostic methods such as physical examination, X-rays, or CT scans yield inconclusive results.

In cases of cancer, laparoscopy can aid in staging abdominal tumours, providing valuable insights into the extent of the disease and guiding treatment decisions. It is also useful for assessing abdominal injuries, enabling precise localization and evaluation of the severity of trauma, including internal bleeding.

For women, gynaecologic laparoscopy serves as a diagnostic tool for investigating pelvic pain and addressing various gynaecological conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, and abnormalities of the fallopian tubes. Additionally, laparoscopy is employed in the treatment of endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy and for performing tubal ligation procedures to achieve permanent contraception.

Furthermore, there may be additional indications for undergoing a laparoscopy, as your healthcare provider recommends.

What are the risks associated with Laparoscopy?

Potential complications associated with laparoscopy include bleeding from the incision site, organ injury within the abdomen, or unintended entry of carbon dioxide gas into other areas of the body.

However, there are situations where undergoing a laparoscopy may not be advisable. This includes:

1. Advanced cancerous growths are present on the abdominal wall.

2. Chronic tuberculosis that has progressed to an advanced stage.

3. Bleeding disorders such as thrombocytopenia characterized by low blood platelet count.

4. Extensive scar tissue (adhesions) resulting from previous surgeries.

5. Use of blood-thinning medications that increase the risk of bleeding.

Additionally, individual medical conditions may pose unique risks that must be considered before a laparoscopy. It's essential to discuss any concerns or potential contraindications with your healthcare provider before the procedure.

Furthermore, certain factors may hinder the effectiveness of a laparoscopy. These include obesity or the presence of internal bleeding within the abdomen.

What happens during Laparoscopy?

During a laparoscopy, the duration varies depending on whether it's for diagnosis or treatment. Typically, a diagnostic laparoscopy lasts 30 to 60 minutes, while surgical procedures may take longer.

The procedure is conducted under general anaesthesia, ensuring you're comfortably asleep and feel no pain.

Here's how a laparoscopy is performed:

1. The surgeon makes a small incision, usually near your belly button.

2. Carbon dioxide gas is gently pumped into your abdomen through the incision. This helps create space and provides a clear view for the surgeon.

3. A thin, flexible tube with a camera (laparoscope) is inserted through the incision. The camera captures video images of the abdominal cavity displayed on a monitor.

4. If surgery is required, additional small incisions may be made to allow the surgeon to introduce specialized instruments into the abdomen.

5. Once the procedure is complete, the carbon dioxide gas is released from the abdomen, and the incisions are closed using stitches or clips. A dressing may be applied to the incision sites for protection.

After the procedure, you'll be monitored in a recovery area until you wake up from anaesthesia.

What are the complications of Laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a frequently performed procedure with low complication rates. However, rare complications may include:

• The need for open surgery requires a larger incision.
• Development of a hernia.
• Injury to an organ, such as the bladder.
• Injury to a blood vessel.
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to the general anaesthetic.
• Formation of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.

Speak to our experts about Laparoscopy.

Are you or a loved one considering a laparoscopy procedure? Still, trying to figure out what to expect or if it's the right option for you? Our team of experienced experts is here to guide you every step of the way. Book your appointment now.