Laparoscopy is an operation that uses a thin instrument called a laparoscope, which at the end contains a light and a camera to visualize the abdominal cavity through a small incision in the navel to help us examine and operate (if necessary) on the available pathology.
Basically, the most common applications of laparoscopy are:
- Diagnostic laparoscopy
- Ovarian cyst surgery
- Checking if your fallopian tubes are blocked
- Uterine fibroid surgery
- Biopsy
What to expect during a laparoscopic procedure
The laparoscopic procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
The duration of the procedure depends on the pathology being operated on, most procedures last 1-3 hours.
In order to gain insight into the abdominal cavity, a laparoscope is introduced through a small incision on the navel. Depending on the type of procedure, it is necessary to make an additional 2 or 3 incisions (5-10 mm incision size) so that our surgeons can operate on the pathology found. After the procedure, the patient is transferred to the recovery room, where he will be under the supervision of our staff.
Recovery after the procedure
Most patients recover within a few days of the procedure. It is recommended to take a vacation for at least 7 days after the procedure, so it is advisable to plan a vacation from work during the specified period. The first examination after the procedure is performed 7 days after the operation for the purpose of removing sutures from the wounds that were used for the use of surgical instruments.
Behavior after surgery:
- Avoid lifting heavy things for 4-6 weeks after the procedure
- Physical activity (running and other exercises) after 14 days
- Avoid sexual intercourse and the use of tampons for 2 weeks
- Do not bathe in bathtubs or swimming pools for two weeks (showering is fine after 48 hours).
How to prepare for the laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia, and it is necessary to take the necessary measures before the procedure itself:
- Do not consume food and drink the evening before the procedure, if the procedure is performed in the afternoon, you must not drink anything 4 hours before the procedure and do not eat anything 8 hours before the procedure.
- In the preoperative examination with our anesthesiologist, you will discuss all the medications you are taking (prescription and non-prescription) and follow all instructions for stopping or changing the dose.
- Avoid heavy food a few days before the procedure
Risks and side effects after laparoscopy procedures
Most patients recover within a few days, and the most common symptoms reported by patients are:
- Mild to moderate pain
- Abdominal wall tenderness
- Pain in the abdominal muscles and shoulder
There are also some conditions that you should pay attention to and contact us if they occur:
- Fever, chills, weakness
- Severe pain
- Vaginal bleeding
