Laparoscopy is a surgical diagnostic procedure that is conducted to test the organs inside the abdomen. This low-risk and invasive procedure requires only small incisions. A laparoscope is a long and thin tube that is inserted with high resolution camera to look inside the organs. This instrument is inserted through the incision in the abdominal wall and sends images to a video monitor.
Through laparoscopy, the doctor will be able to see what’s happening inside your body without performing an open surgery.
In this article, we will tell you all there is to know about laparoscopy so that you can make an informed decision. So if you are looking for Laparoscopic Surgeon Near Me, then read this article to educate yourself.
Reasons to perform Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is performed to identify the source of abdominal pain and to diagnose the cause of it. It is usually performed when non-invasive methods are unable to provide reliable diagnosis. In many cases, the doctors use imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI etc. to assess the cause of abdominal pain. However, when all else fails, laparoscopy is performed to provide enough information or insight for a diagnosis. The procedure is recommended in case of following scenarios:
-Appendix
-Gallbladder
-Pancreatic issues
-Spleen
-Stomach
-Reproductive organs etc.
The doctor will use a laparoscope in these areas to detect fluid in abdominal cavity, liver disease, the success of treatments etc.
Risks of laparoscopy
Once you undergo laparoscopy, the most common risks associated with this process include bleeding, infection, organ damage etc. However, these risks are rare and can be minimized by hiring a credible surgeon. After your procedure, if you should keep an eye out for infection. Other warning signs include fevers and chills, redness, swelling, intense abdominal pain over a period of time, persistent cough, light headedness, shortness of breath etc.
While uncommon, the other risks include damage to the organs being examined during laparoscopy. It is possible for blood and other fluids to leak out of your body if an organ is punctured. If this happens, you would need other surgery to repair the damage.
Other complications to arise out of this process include discomfort caused by general anaesthesia, a blood clot that can lodge itself in your lungs or pelvis, and an inflammation of the abdominal wall.
This is why it is important to only hire a trained and experienced surgeon for the procedure as they would be able to weigh if the benefits will outweigh the risks. Usually this happens to those who have undergone prior abdominal surgeries.
Preparation for laparoscopy
Before you undergo the procedure, you must tell your doctor about any prescription medications or OTC medications that you are taking. This will help your doctor guide you how to take these medicines before and after the procedure. Your doctor may also change the dosage of your medication that may impact the outcome of laparoscopy. These medicines include blood thinners, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, medicines for blood clotting, vitamin K supplements, dietary supplements etc.
Additionally, you must also tell your doctor if you think you might be pregnant. This will reduce any risk to your developing baby.
Your doctor will also perform certain tests such as blood tests, chest X-ray, urinalysis, and ECG to understand the extent of abnormality that is to be examined via laparoscopy.
You would be required to stop eating or drinking for at least eight hours before undergoing the procedure. You should also take help from a family member or friend to drive you back home after the procedure.
How is laparoscopy performed?
This is an outpatient procedure, which means you get to go back the same day as your surgery. It can either be performed in a hospital or an outpatient clinic.
During the surgery, you may be given anaesthesia to help you sleep through the process and not feel any pain. In some cases, the doctors may also use local anaesthetics to numb the area. So even if you do wake up after the surgery, you will not feel any pain.
Laparoscopy is performed by making an incision below your belly button and inserting a small tube called cannula. The cannula inflates your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas that allows the doctor to see your organs more clearly.
After the procedure is done, the doctor will remove the instruments and close the stitches using surgical tape.
The success of the surgery depends on the qualification and experience of the surgeon. So leave no stone unturned to ensure that your doctor knows what they are doing. Even though this process may be relatively non-invasive, it is not entirely free from risks.
