What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Also known as 'keyhole' or 'minimal access' surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is an alternative to traditional open surgery. Open surgery requires an incision (cut) large enought to allow the surgeon's hands to enter the abdomen. Laparoscopic surgery is performed through small incisions, using fibre-optic cameras and special instruments. Laparoscopic surgery usually results in a shorter stay in hospital and a faster return to normal activity than after the equivalent open operation.
Today the majority of abdominal operations are able to be done laparoscopically.
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How is Laparoscopic surgery performed?
A fibre-optic camera (laparosocope) is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision (approximately 1cm long) by the umbilicus (belly-button). Depending on the operation several further small incisions are made to allow the keyhole instruments access to the abdomen. In each of these small incisions a special plastic tube, called a 'port', is inserted to allow laparoscopes/instruments to be moved in and out of the abdomen.
For more minor surgery, such as hernia repairs, gallstone surgery, appendicectomy, only 3/4 ports are required.
For major bowel surgery 4/5 ports are used. Where the operation requires part of the bowel to be removed, a small incision will also be made on the abdomen, just large enough to allow the bowel to pass through.
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What are the advantages of Laparoscopic bowel surgery?
Less post-operative pain
Reduced hospital stay
Faster overall recovery
Better cosmetic results
May also achieve:
Faster return to normal diet (eating & drinking)
Faster return of bowel activity
Faster return to normal daily activities
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What happens if the surgery cannot be performed using this method?
In 10-15% of patients, part or all of the operation may not be possible laparoscopically and will require conversion to a traditional open operation.
Main factors leading to conversion:
Previous abdominal surgery
Large tumours
Obesity
Problems during surgery making open surgery safer
This is not detrimental, but may requirte a slightly longer stay in hospital.
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What complications can occur?
As with any operation, complications can occur. The complications after laparoscopic surgery are similar to those after open surgery.
These include:
Bleeding
Infection
Anastomotic leak (failure of the new join in the bowel to heal)
Deep vein thrombosis & Pulmonary embolus (blood clots in the legs and lungs)
Complications that develope after you have returned home are rare. You should contact the ward or you r GP if any of the following symptoms occur:
High temperature (above 38°C/ 101°F)
Redness/swelling of wounds
Discharge/pus from wounds
Pain not relieved by your medication
Persistent nausea and vomiting
Unable to eat or drink
Persistent cough or short of breath
Persistent bleeding with your bowel action (a small amount of blood after bowel surgery is normal)
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What to expect after surgery
You will be able to drink immediately after your operation unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon. You will be encouraged to get out of bed the day after your surgery and to walk.
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Are you a candidate for laparoscopic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery has many benefits but is not appropriate for everyone. Your surgeon will be able to advise you appropriately.
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For further information and appointments please call 01273 627059 (Contact Details)
