What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is minimally invasive surgery or keyhole surgery, that allows to access and operate on the pelvic organs through small incisions in the abdomen. It is performed using a laparoscope, a long, thin tube with a high-resolution camera attached to one end. It will be done under general anesthesia.

• Diagnostic laparoscopy :- It is done to identify the problem – any presence of ovarian cyst, to check tubal opening, fluid in fallopian tube problems, fibroids, adhesions etc.
• Operative hysteroscopy :- It is done to correct the problem – ovarian drilling for PCOS, ovarian cyst or fibroid removal, cutting of adhesions, tube opening procedure etc.

Why laparoscopy?

• Diagnosis of cause of unexplained abdominal pain, pelvic pain, or infertility
• Diagnose and treatment of –
  • Endometriosis
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Tubal blockages, fluid in tube
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Fibroids
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

What precautions before laparoscopy?

• Require basic blood investigations
• Visit post menstrual for procedure
• Need to come fasting (for 10 to 12 hours)
• Continue some medicines – thyroid, blood pressure medicine after consulting doctor on the day of surgery

What is the procedure of laparoscopy?

• Done under general anesthesia
• Procedure time – 30 min (Diagnostic) and 45 to 120 min (Operative)
• 3 to 4 small incisions/cut (0.5 to 1 cm) on abdomen
• Carbon dioxide gas is pumped to create space and improve visibility
• Laparoscope is inserted through one of the cuts which is connected to camera and attached to monitor
• Performing the operative procedure if required in the same sitting

What instructions after laparoscopy?

• Day care procedure – Discharged after 4 to 6 hours of procedure
• Eat light food post procedure on same day
• May observe mild abdominal cramping, nausea, bloated feeling, pain in shoulder tip on same day
• Avoid intercourse for at least two weeks

What are advantages of laparoscopy?

• Diagnostic and operative procedures can be done together
• Improved visualization
• Reduced scarring
• Lesser risk of complications, Faster recovery
• Less risk of infection
• Short hospital stay
• Can resume normal activities in 2 to 3 days time

What are complications of laparoscopy?

• Postoperative fever
• Adhesions
• Bleeding, hematoma
• Injury to intestines, bladder
• Anesthesia risks