Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy (or “keyhole surgery”) is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to examine or operate inside your abdomen and pelvis using a thin, lighted tube called a laparoscope. It involves small incisions, reduced scarring, and faster recovery compared to open surgery.

Why is Laparoscopy Performed?

            Your gynaecologist may recommend this surgery for

• Diagnostic purposes: Investigate causes of pelvic pain, infertility, or suspected conditions (e.g., endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy).
• Treatment: Remove cysts, fibroids, or organs (e.g., appendix, gallbladder); treat blockages, adhesions (scar tissue), or infections.

Before the Procedure

• Pre-assessment: Blood tests or imaging may be required.
• Fasting: No food/drink for 6–12 hours before surgery (follow your doctor’s instructions).
• Medications: Discuss current medications (e.g., blood thinners) with your doctor.
• Transport: Arrange a ride home, as you cannot drive after general anaesthesia.

During the Procedure

• Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia (you’ll be asleep).
• Incisions:
  1–4 small cuts (0.5–1 cm) are made in the abdomen.
  The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas for better visibility.
• Examination/treatment:
  The laparoscope transmits images to a screen for assessment
  Surgical tools are inserted through other incisions to complete the laparoscopic treatment (e.g., to remove tissue).
• Closure: Stitches or glue seal the incisions.
• Duration: 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

Risks and Complications

• Common (temporary):
  • Shoulder/neck pain (from gas irritation).
  • Mild bloating, bruising, or soreness at incision sites.
• Rare but serious:
  
  • Infection, bleeding, or damage to organs (e.g., bowel, bladder).
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
  • Hernia at incision sites.

Recovery

• Immediate aftercare:
  • Rest in recovery for 2–4 hours; most go home the same day.
  • You may feel drowsy or nauseous (side effects of anaesthesia).
• At home:
  
  • Pain relief: Use prescribed medications or over-the-counter options (e.g., paracetamol).
  •  Activity: Rest for 24–48 hours. Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, or driving for 5–7 days.
  • Return to work: Typically, within 1–2 weeks (varies by job type).

Alternatives to Laparoscopy

• Open surgery: Larger incision, longer recovery.
• Imaging scans: Ultrasound, MRI, or CT (less invasive but may not provide definitive answers).

Follow-Up

• A post-op appointment may be scheduled to discuss results or further treatment.
• Biopsy results (if taken) typically return in 1–2 weeks.