Laparoscopy is a type of surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to access the inside of the abdomen (tummy) and pelvis without having to make large incisions in the skin. This procedure is also known as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery.

What is laparoscopy?

Keyhole surgery is a type of surgery in which the surgeon uses only small cuts to get through the skin. It requires special training. People who have keyhole surgery usually recover quite quickly. Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery used to examine or operate on the interior of the abdominal or pelvic cavities. It is performed under general anesthesia, usually by a surgeon or gynecologist (women’s health specialist).During laparoscopy (also known as peritoneoscopy), a small cut is made in the abdomen. A thin tube containing a light and camera, known as a laparoscope, is then inserted to look inside the abdomen and pelvis. Gas is used to inflate the belly so the surgeon can see the organs properly.One or more other small incisions may be made for other small instruments if needed.

When is laparoscopy used?

Laparoscopy is used to diagnose conditions or perform surgery in the abdominal and pelvis . It can be used to:

  • Assess painful or heavy periods
  • Remove the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries
  • Diagnose or treat endometriosis
  • Diagnose or remove ovarian cysts
  • Assess female infertility
  • Treat ectopic pregnancy
  • Remove cysts or other tumours
  • Remove the gall bladder
  • Remove parts of the intestine
  • Take a biopsy (a small tissue sample) for testing
  • Search for the causes of ongoing abdominal or pelvic pain.

LAPAROSCOPY

The smaller incisions are less painful. As a result, we see a decreased need for pain medication, shorter recovery time and better cosmetic result. Patients are able to eat when they feel ready, and there is less internal scarring.
The risks are similar for laparoscopic, open and vaginal surgery. There is always a possibility that the surgeon cannot complete the procedure laparoscopically and a larger incision may be needed. This risk is small, as are the risks of bleeding, infection, damage to the bladder, bowel, blood vessels and ureters. With any surgery, there may be unforeseen risks and a potential, but exceedingly rare risk of death.Accordion Sample Description
Yes, coordination of other procedures, commonly bladder procedures for incontinence, can be performed.
During the surgical procedure, small incisions of up to half an inch are made and plastic tubes called ports are placed through these incisions. The camera and the instruments are then introduced through the ports which allow the surgeon to view these images and perform the surgery.
Yes, you will be on a clear liquid diet for 14 days prior to your surgery. During this time you can also have unlimited amounts of non-starchy vegetables such as salads, green beans, cabbage, carrots, eggplant, broccoli and cauliflower. Your liquids will include water, crystal light, soup broth and diet beverages. You will also be drinking protein shakes during this time. This period is designed to help clean out your colon and help to lose weight before surgery.