LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR PATIENT ENQUIRIES

Question

What is laparoscopic surgery?

Answer

In traditional or "open" surgery, the surgeon makes a cut in the body to expose the organs or part of the body which is being operated on. With keyhole surgery the operation is carried out inside the body. Only a small incision is made into which a special tube, known as a port, is inserted. It is through these that the special surgical instruments used in keyhole surgery are passed.

The surgeon is able to see inside the body using a special viewing instrument called an endoscope. Endoscopes have a powerful light source, and can be used as a form of telescope, or connected to a highly specialised miniature video camera which projects a clear image from inside the body on to a television screen.

Question

Why are you recommending it for me?

Answer

Keyhole surgery is particularly suitable for certain conditions. There are a rowing number of operations regularly carried out using keyhole surgery techniques. It is also increasingly used for diagnostic purposes.

The result of keyhole surgery makes the procedure less traumatic for a patient, as there is less pain, minimal scarring, a reduced risk of infection, faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activity.

Question

Is it safe ?

Answer

With all types of surgery there is a slight risk, and the surgeon will tell you what the possible complications and risk factors might be. However, because keyhole surgery is less invasive than traditional surgery, this risk is minimised.

Occasionally, during an operation, the surgeon may discover an additional problem which complicates the procedure. In this situation, the surgeon may need to make a number of decisions which might include converting from keyhole to open surgery.

Question

How long does the operation take?

Answer

This will depend entirely on the operation. Your surgeon will be able to answer this question.

Question

Will I have much scarring?

Answer

An advantage of keyhole surgery is that the scars will be minimal, and your wounds should heal quickly. You can shower or wash your wound after the first day, unless the surgeon tells you otherwise, but do not soak in the bath for the first few days.

Question

How long will I be in hospital?

Answer

Many hospitals now have day surgery units. Depending on the operation you are having, you may be sent to one of these, which means you will be in and out of hospital in a day. Keyhole surgery normally enables you to return home sooner than you might if you had experienced "open" surgery. Your surgeon will advise you about this.

Question

Will I have to have stitches removed?

Answer

Some stitches dissolve after about a week to ten days, but non-absorbable stitches will need to be removed about a week after the operation. Any internal stitches will remain safely in the body.

Question

How long will it take before I can return to work and normal activities?

Answer

In general, people who have keyhole surgery are able to go back to work quicker than those who undergo traditional surgery. Depending on the type of operation you have had, you may be able to return to work within the week. If your job involves heavy manual work, then it may be longer before you are ready to work.

Question

What is the likelihood of complications after the operation?

Answer

The likelihood is the same for both traditional or keyhole surgery.