Surgery

Laparoscopic Surgery : Everything You Need To Know

Laparoscopic surgical procedures, also known as minimally invasive surgeries, are very common. It requires about 4 very small incisions, about half inch in size. Because these incisions are small, healing time is improved. Traditional surgery or open surgical procedure typically requires a larger incision to allow visualization of the abdominal cavity. These types of surgeries cut more tissue, requiring a longer healing time. Many types of surgeries can be done laparoscopically.  

How is laparoscopic surgery done? 

Once sedated, most often under general anesthesia, where a tube is placed into the airway for breathing, the abdomen is prepped with an antiseptic cleanser. The first small incision is placed at the umbilicus (belly button). Through this incision, a laparoscope (instrument with a camera and light) is placed into the abdomen. The abdominal cavity is then insufflated with gas (carbon dioxide). This allows room for visualizing the abdominal cavity and the movement of instruments without injuring the organs or tissue.  

What are the advantages of laparoscopic surgery? 

There are many benefits to have a laparoscopic procedure. These include: 

• Less trauma to skin and muscle 
• Small incisions and scars 
• Decreased post-operative pain 
• Decreased need for narcotic pain medication 
• Shorter hospital stays 
• Shorter recovery period 
• Less bleeding 
• Decreased risk of infection 

Prior to determining the need for surgery, diagnostic tests are performed based on symptoms. CT scans, MRIs, and Xray, can be done to diagnose the problem. Although in some cases, the health problem may not be evident. The surgeon may recommend a laparoscopy for diagnostic purposes. This means the surgeon will place the laparoscope inside the abdomen to visualize what is going on.  

What type of surgery is done laparoscopically? 

Many surgeries can be done laparoscopically, however not all. The most common is appendectomy and cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal).  

 

Author Profile: Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse

 

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