Why would someone need a laparoscopy?

A laparoscopy is often done when the results of a physical exam, X-ray, or CT scan are not clear. Laparoscopy may be used to determine a stage of cancer for an abdominal organ. It may also be used to check an abdominal injury. It can see where the injury is and how deep it is.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy

Diagnostic laparoscopy is often done for the following: Find the cause of pain or a growth in the abdomen and pelvic area when x-ray or ultrasound results aren’t clear. After an accident to see if there is injury to any organs in the abdomen. Before procedures to treat cancer to find out if the cancer has spread.

What symptoms indicate that you need Laparoscopy?

aparoscopy is indicated in the treatment of certain health problems related to gynecology, gastroenterology, urology as well as other specialties. Important symptoms related to such health complications needing surgical treatment may include the following:

  • Symptoms related to Pelvic inflammatory diseases: Pain and inflammation in the lower abdomen caused due to bacterial infection of the genital or urinary tract.
  • Symptoms of endometriosis: Severe pain accompanied by heavy menstrual flow.
  • Symptoms related to appendicitis: Severe pain and inflammation in the lower abdomen caused to infection of the appendix.
  • Symptoms related to ovarian cysts: Pain near pelvic region caused due to cyst formation in ovary.
  • Symptoms related to unexplained abdominal pain.

     

  • How to prepare for laparoscopy?

     

    • You should guide your specialist regarding any medicine or over-the-counter meds you’re taking. Your specialist will schedule the medication for you before and after the procedure.
    • Your specialist may change the portion of any meds that could influence the result of laparoscopy. These medications include anticoagulants, for example, blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including headache medicine (Bufferin) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB). Different meds that influence blood thickening, herbal or dietary enhancements like vitamin K.
    • You ought to likewise tell your specialist in case you’re pregnant or figure you may be pregnant. This will lessen the risk of harm to your developing child.
    • When the process of laparoscopy is done the specialist asks to do more tests like blood tests, urinalysis, X-ray of chest, electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). After these are done the specialist may also perform image testing which also includes ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI.
    • By doing these tests the specialist gets to know the better understanding of the norm that has been analyzed during laparoscopy. This helps in improving the viability of the disease.

     

     

  • How is Laparoscopy done?

    Laparoscopy is a less-invasive surgical procedure performed under the supervision of a surgeon. It is done with the effect of general anesthesia and the patient undergoing it remains unconscious throughout the procedure. Important steps involved in it include:

    • Preparation: This involves pre-operative preparations such as asking the patient to avoid eating or drinking for 6 to 12 hours prior to surgery, stopping the medications like blood-thinners a few days before the surgery, and quitting habits like smoking.
    • Procedure: A small incision of length 1 – 1.5 cm is made near the belly button. A tube is inserted through it, followed by pumping carbon dioxide gas to inflate the abdomen. This provides the surgeon more room to work and allows to get a clearer view of the organs inside.

      A laparoscope is inserted passing through the tube which relays images to the monitor or screen. Then, other incisions are made in the abdomen for insertion of the small surgical instruments. These instruments are guided through the laparoscope to be used for the treatment at the right place.

    • Post-operative steps: After the procedure is completed, carbon dioxide is let to pass out of the abdomen. The incisions are closed by stitching or clipping, followed by dressing.