Improving Your Care With Laparoscopy
There are many conditions involving the organs of the stomach and pelvis. Surgeons needed a better way to perform surgeries while reducing patient pain and recovery. Out of this need, laparoscopic surgery was born. The procedure sounds complicated but knowing what to expect during a laparoscopy can really put patients at ease.
A closer look
The name stems from the laparoscope. A long, thin device with a high-powered camera and light attached. Using a cut of less than an inch, the laparoscope goes in and relays the organs on a screen. The surgeon can view the affected organs and perform repairs as needed. That’s why medical practitioners call the operation minimally invasive or keyhole surgery and is helpful in determining infertility factors.
Laparoscopy and reproductive health
The operation has become the standard for gallbladder removal, removing tumors, or parts of the intestine. But the most effective use is to examine the female reproductive organs. Conventional x-rays may not see an existing problem. So a pelvic laparoscopy really helps with identifying female infertility issues. Conditions like endometriosis, fibroids or ovarian cysts need the operation for confirmation and treatment. Studies also show high effectiveness in detecting ovarian cancer and reducing death rates due to misdiagnosis. A laparoscopy can help physicians diagnose fibroids, scars, endometriosis or blocked fallopian tubes which are all common causes of infertility.
Getting prepped for laparoscopy
Before surgery, patients should stop smoking, eating, drinking, and taking medications the day prior. In the operating room, patients get an IV line with general anesthesia. A tube goes through the mouth to help with breathing. In some cases, a laxative is necessary to cleanse the bowel. Finally, a catheter attached to drain urine during the operation.
Surgeons get to the source
Using a device called a trocar, surgeons create a small incision right below the navel. Carbon dioxide gas goes through the device, allowing a clearer view of the organs. The laparoscope goes in through the incision and projects the organ, for example, the ovaries on a nearby monitor. With a clear view, the surgeon can now find the root of the problem and make an improved diagnosis.
Taking action
The surgeon can make added incisions to use tools to remove bad tissue, tumors, or drain fluid. After surgery, surgeons remove the tools and laparoscope. This allows the surgeons to drain the carbon dioxide, then stitch up and bandage the incisions. There are rare cases where larger incisions occur based on the scope of the problem.
Expect a smooth recovery
Laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure. The entire process should cover a few hours. In the recovery room, medical personnel remove the tubes and monitor the patient. Pain is natural, regardless of the size of the incisions. Medication helps to manage pain. Once all is well, the patient can leave in the care of a relative.
Trusting the process
The operation can seem scary. But the procedure is safe and provides a shorter recovery time with reduced pain. Laparoscopic surgery has been around for decades. Studies show advancements in accuracy and safety continue with the use of robotics for example. Rest assured, surgeons will provide helpful details long before any incision.
