Laparoscopic surgery and what you need to know

What is laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is a medical procedure used to diagnose and potentially treat a number of issues that may be affecting the abdomen or pelvis. This procedure allows the examiner to identify any abnormalities so that subsequent treatment can then occur.

What might you need laparoscopic surgery?

As there are a number of issues that can be diagnosed through laparoscopic surgery the symptoms you may be experiencing can vary. The procedure is usually used to identify female infertility or other problems related to the female reproductive system, ectopic pregnancies, adhesions in the pelvic cavity, diseases of the urinary system or cancer of the internal organs.

General procedure

Laparoscopic surgery is performed under general anaesthetic by inserting a tool called a laparoscope through a small incision in the abdomen. A gas, carbon dioxide, is then pumped into the cavity to separate the organs from the abdominal wall. This allows the examiner to identify any issues that you may be experiencing which will then allow for the proper treatment to occur. Depending on the issue you may be experiencing, up to three incisions may be made to allow for the use of tools to either help diagnose or remove the problem during the procedure. Once the diagnosis has been made or the problem removed, the tools are then removed, the gas is allowed to escape and the incisions are closed up.

Post-op care

Immediately after the procedure it is normal to feel soreness around the incision site, nausea, abdominal cramps and the sensation of abdominal bloating, constipation or shoulder pain, which is caused by the gas used in the procedure. These effects can last up to two days after the surgery. If they have not resolved by then you should see your doctor.

After the surgery we advise that you do not drive yourself home so it is important to arrange alternative transportation. Once at home we suggest that you do not engage in strenuous physical activity for about a week.