Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems of the abdominal and pelvic areas. During this procedure, an endoscope (tube) with a camera on the end is inserted through a tiny incision to allow our doctors to closely examine the organs of the area. Surgical instruments can be inserted through additional incisions to treat any identified problems.
This procedure may be performed for a number of reasons, including to:
- Perform a biopsy
- Examine and possibly remove any growths (such as tumors)
- Check for metastasis (spreading) of cancer from other areas
- Repair a hernia
- Remove organs such as the spleen, gallbladder, appendix, colon, rectum, or pancreas
Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on what is done during the procedure. In most cases, patients can go home shortly after the procedure and return to work and other normal activities the next day. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for about 7 days.
Laparoscopy is considered a safe procedure with little risk of complications.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery include:
- Less pain
- Shorter recovery time
- Smaller incisions mean minimal scarring
- Less blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay or even no hospital stay