Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed using a laparoscope. A laparoscope is a thin 5 or 10 mm optical instrument with a camera and light source attached to it. Laparoscopy can be used for diagnosing and treating various conditions.

Why are Laparoscopies done?

Laparoscopy in gynaecology is done to the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs which are not evident by other diagnostic procedures such as ultrasounds or other scans.

Laparoscopy is used to diagnose and treat the conditions of

pelvic pain,
infertility,
fibroids,
cysts,
tumours,
endometriosis,
ectopic (tubal) pregnancies,
pelvic inflammatory disease and
other gynaecological problems.
presence of scar tissue,
infections,

The advantages of laparoscopic procedures when compared to open laparotomy include:

Reduced hospital stay
Smaller incisions and less scarring
Less postoperative pain
Faster recovery
Enhanced view of pelvis and abdomen
Less risk of adhesions

About the procedure

A laparoscopy is performed in a Day Stay Unit under general anaesthesia. During the procedure, we make a small incision in the abdomen, usually at or below the belly button, and insert a tube through which the laparoscope is introduced into the abdomen. Images from the camera are projected onto a large screen for us to view. Other small incisions (about 5mm) are made and used to insert small instruments to assist in carefully examining the entire pelvic and abdominal area - including uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, bladder, rectum, appendix, liver, stomach, diaphragm. A special blue dye may also be injected through the cervix to see if the fallopian tubes are patent open). After the procedure, the incisions are closed with sutures and covered with glue and/or bandages.

Post operative expectations

It is common to experience right shoulder tip pain for about 24 hours after a laparoscopy. This is referred pain from the CO2 gas which is trapped under the diaphragm. It is common to experience a bloated sensation and sharp, shooting pains for about 3 days after. Most women will feel tired for about 5 days. You can expect to return to work after about 3- 5 days.

We shall see you after the laparoscopy to briefly discuss how everything went and to make sure you are OK. You will be reviewed at 2-6 weeks to check your progress and discuss the findings- including laparoscopic pictures and pathology results.

Post operative care

The best advice is to take it easy for 5 days. Avoid strenuous activity and exercise. There will be three to four cuts (from the small keyhole incisions) and these are covered with glue and/or waterproof dressings.

You can have a shower or a bath. You can remove the dressings after 3 days.