LAPAROSCOPY

What is a Laparoscopy?

A Laparoscopy is an examination of the abdominal contents using a small fiberoptic telescope.  The telescope is inserted into the abdomen through a tube (about the size of a finger) via a small cut next to the navel.  The telescope is attached to a television screen, which allows us to visualise the abdominal organs.  If operations are to be performed then, additional smaller tubes are inserted at various places in the abdomen through which instruments will be inserted to perform the procedure. 

Risks

 Laparoscopy is usually a safe procedure but as with all surgical procedures, there are risks involved.  These include

 General

• General anaesthetic risks

• Bleeding

• Infection

Specific

• Pain in abdomen, pelvis or shoulders due to the carbon dioxide gas causing irritation of the abdominal lining.  This is usually relieved by paracetamol or dispirin.

• Damage to nearby structures eg organs or vessels, which may need a conversion to an open operation to fix it

• Gas embolism – the carbon dioxide that is used to inflate the abdomen for better visualisation may enter the blood stream and cause complications that are potentially fatal

These are all rare events but one should be aware of the possibilities and the very rare need of converting into an open operation. 

Prior to Operation you will be required to fast from midnight or 6 hours pre operative.  You may be advised not to take aspirin, medicines containing aspirin, garlic, medicine for the heart that thins the blood, large amounts of vitamins or anti-inflammatory medicines for at least 10 days before surgery as they may increase the risk of bleeding during the operation. 

After the Operation you will be taken to the recovery room and subsequently transferred to the ward.  You will most likely be able to go home the day after surgery with pain relief and/or anti-inflammatory tablets.  Some mild pain and soreness may be present for about a week and it will be necessary to take things easy during this time.  If you develop high fever, chills, vomiting or discharge from your wounds, please contact the surgery or the emergency department. 

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