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Laparoscopy
What is Laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is also called Keyhole Surgery.
Laparoscopy is a technique of performing a surgical operation using instruments inserted through small incisions via narrow hollow tubes ('ports') rather than through a larger incision, as in traditional surgery. The result is shorter hospitalisation and convalescence, less bleeding and post-operative pain and fewer wound complications.
What happens before my operation?
You will be seen in the Pre- assessment clinic by the nurse or the anesthetist and information will be given about your operation.
On the day of the operation you must not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the operation/admission.
When you arrive on the ward, a nurse will show you around the ward and record your temperature, blood pressure and pulse. The anesthetist and the surgeon will see you before the operation.
What happens during the operation?
Three to four small cuts are made; one under your belly button (umbilicus) and two or three in other places. Gas (usually CO2) is inserted inside your tummy to allow the surgeon to have a good look inside the tummy. Narrow telescopes are passed through these cuts and the surgeon then looks at the various organs in your tummy. The procedure varies depending upon the operation you are undergoing. When the operation is finished the cuts are stitched.
If you are being investigated for infertility, a blue dye will be inserted through the cervix into the womb and tubes. This enables the surgeon to see with the telescope whether your tubes are open or blocked.
The operating time varies from operation to operation and can be from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the surgery.
What risks or complications can occur?
Most operations are successful with few complications. However, every procedure has risks and potential complications. Please discuss them with your doctor if there is anything that you do not understand.
Complications can be related to the anaesthetic, general complications of any operation and complications specific to the operation you are about to undergo.
