Laparoscopy
A laparoscopy is a type of surgery that uses tiny incisions and a special surgical camera, referred to as a laparoscope, to perform a procedure. Laparoscopy is also sometimes referred to as a minimally invasive procedure.
Laparoscopy has numerous benefits over open surgery like:
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Smaller scars
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter, if any, hospital stays.
A woman may need laparoscopy if she has:
- Endometriosis: to assist in diagnosis and removal of endometrial tissue
- Cancer: to remove certain types of cancer, such as endometrial or cervical cancer
- Fibroids: to evaluate and remove a benign tumor
- Ovarian cyst: to remove a cyst if it doesn’t resolve on its own
- Infertility: inability to conceive to confirm the diagnosis
- Ectopic pregnancy: for removal and to repair or remove affected fallopian tube
Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia, so you don’t feel any discomfort while the surgeon is looking at your organs or performing a procedure
After the anesthesia, the surgical team cuts a small incision in your abdomen. The site of the incision may vary depending on the reason you’re having a laparoscopy but is usually under the navel.
Your abdomen is then filled with gas so the surgeon has a clearer view of your organs. The laparoscope is then inserted and a video image is transmitted to a screen.
The physician may make one or two more incisions to insert additional surgical instruments.
While a laparoscopy is less invasive than open surgery, you may still feel some discomfort for the first few days after surgery.
The amount of time it takes for you to recover and resume your usual activities depends on the procedure and your general health. For minor procedures, you may be back to your usual self within a few days, but more invasive procedures may take a few weeks. The doctor will provide you with your recovery plan
For more information about laparoscopic surgery, call or book an appointment online.