Laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure performed in the abdominal (belly) area. Compared to traditional surgery, laparoscopy offers several advantages, such as faster recovery, reduced pain, and smaller scars.
This procedure requires specialized training, and patients who undergo keyhole surgery typically experience a quicker recovery. Laparoscopy is commonly used to examine or operate on the abdominal or pelvic cavities. It is conducted under general anesthesia, usually by a surgeon or gynecologist (a women's health specialist). During laparoscopy (also referred to as peritoneoscopy), a small incision is made in the abdomen, and a thin tube containing a light and camera—called a laparoscope—is inserted to allow the surgeon to view the abdominal and pelvic organs. To enhance visibility, gas is used to inflate the abdominal area. Additional small incisions may be made for inserting other instruments, if necessary.
Laparoscopy is used to diagnose conditions or perform surgery in the abdominal and pelvic regions. It can be utilized to:
After the procedure, you may feel some soreness around the incision sites and experience shoulder pain due to the gas used to inflate your abdomen. After a few hours in the recovery room, you are likely to be discharged with specific care instructions regarding pain management, dressings, and stitches.
Like any surgery, laparoscopy comes with potential complications, which may include:
Gallbladder removal is one of the most common surgeries, with approximately 600,000 procedures performed annually in the United States. The gallbladder stores bile, which aids in digestion after fatty meals. However, when gallstones form, they can cause pain and bloating, leading to more severe complications like infection or bile duct blockage. Most gallbladder removals are done laparoscopically, allowing for faster recovery.
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication:This procedure is performed on patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). During the surgery, the top part of the stomach (the fundus) is wrapped around the junction of the esophagus and stomach, tightening the sphincter muscle to improve its function. This laparoscopic surgery is often recommended for patients who no longer respond to medication or prefer not to take long-term antacids. Many patients do not require further medication after surgery.
Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair:Ventral hernias are repaired laparoscopically to prevent internal organs from becoming trapped, which can lead to strangulation (death of the organ). Every hernia is repaired using PTFE mesh, ensuring a more durable outcome and reduced postoperative pain. The recurrence rate with mesh repair is approximately 1%, significantly lower than with traditional methods.
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair:Inguinal hernias are repaired on an elective basis to prevent organ entrapment. Almost all hernias are repaired using a polypropylene mesh, offering a more durable repair with less pain compared to traditional surgery. Hernia repairs are done laparoscopically when feasible.
Laparoscopic Colon Resection:Parts of the colon or the entire colon can be removed laparoscopically in a minimally invasive procedure. The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision near the belly button, and additional incisions are made as needed. In more complex cases, a "hand-assist" technique may be used, allowing the surgeon to place a hand through a small incision while the rest of the surgery is performed laparoscopically. The benefits include quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays (1-3 days compared to 3-5 days for traditional surgery).