Laparoscopic surgery, also called minimally invasive or “keyhole” surgery, is a modern surgical technique that uses small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments to perform procedures inside the abdomen or pelvis. Compared to traditional open surgery, it results in less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery
The procedure
During a laparoscopic procedure, a surgeon typically follows these steps:
The patient is given general anesthesia to relax muscles and prevent pain.
A small incision, usually near the belly button, is made.
A tube is inserted to fill the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide gas. This inflates the area, separating the abdominal wall from the organs for a clearer view.
A laparoscope—a thin tube with a camera and light—is inserted through the incision.
Images from the camera are projected onto a high-definition monitor, guiding the surgeon through the operation.
One or more additional small incisions are made to insert other surgical instruments.
After the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed, the gas is released, and the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue.
Common uses and types of surgery
Laparoscopy can be used for both diagnostic purposes (to find a problem) and to perform surgery. Common uses include:
Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy): A common laparoscopic procedure for removing a diseased gallbladder.
Appendectomy: The surgical removal of an inflamed appendix.
Hernia repair: For repairing various types of hernias, particularly in the abdomen.
Gastrointestinal procedures: Including anti-reflux surgery (fundoplication), colon surgery (colectomy), and gastric bypass surgery.
Urological procedures: For removing a kidney (nephrectomy) or treating other urinary tract conditions.
Diagnostic evaluations: To investigate unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain, growths, infections, or assess the stage of certain cancers.
Benefits and risks
Benefits
Compared to traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery offers several advantages:
Smaller incisions and scars: The small cuts are less invasive and result in smaller scars.
Less pain: Smaller incisions cause less tissue damage, leading to a quicker and more comfortable recovery.
Reduced risk of infection and bleeding: Limited exposure of internal organs minimizes the risk of contamination and blood loss.
Shorter hospital stay: Many patients can be discharged the same day, and hospital stays are generally shorter.
Faster recovery: Patients can return to normal activities much sooner.
Risks
While generally safe, laparoscopic surgery does carry some risks, which are usually rare:
Infection and bleeding: At the incision sites.
Injury to organs or blood vessels: This can happen from the instruments and is more likely in patients with previous abdominal surgeries.
Shoulder pain: Referred pain in the shoulder is common for a couple of days due to the carbon dioxide gas irritating nerves.
Abdominal bloating: From the gas used during the procedure.
Complications from anesthesia: As with any surgical procedure.
Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure's complexity, but most patients experience a faster recovery than with open surgery.
Pain management: Mild pain around the incision sites and in the shoulder is common but can be managed with medication.
Activity: Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation. Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks.
Diet: A fluid and soft-food diet may be recommended initially. Normal eating can resume as tolerated.
Returning to work: Many patients can return to work within a few days to a few weeks.
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