subject: 4 Important Things To Know About Laparoscopy [print this page] The surgical procedure called laparoscopy is conducted by inserting a laparoscope through a cut in the abdomen. Doctors use laparoscopy to observe a patient's internal organs in the abdomen or make repairs to them without having to make large incisions that could require longer healing time or more specialized hospital treatment. A basic understanding of laparoscopy is necessary if you are going to undergo surgery that involves it such as laparoscopic fertility surgery.
The doctors will use a laparoscope and special instruments inside the abdomen during the procedure
Laparoscopy necessitates only a small incision on the abdomen just sufficient to insert the laparoscope and other necessary instruments. The laparoscope is a device consisting of a light, camera and a fiber-optic tube. The patient's abdominal organs can be viewed with these various instruments.
It can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility problems and other health issues
Many fertility doctors routinely use laparoscopy to find and treat the causes of infertility. However, this surgical procedure is normally made only after a previous diagnostic exam for infertility was made. Though, there are some infertility causes that can only be diagnosed using laparoscopy like endometriosis. Doctors may also use laparoscopic surgery to biopsy suspicious cysts or identify if internal pain experienced by patients is a symptom of a more serious medical condition. In the case of a patient experiencing pelvic pains, laparoscopic surgery may be used to investigate the cause of the discomfort and to do what is needed to treat the problem such as removing scar tissue.
Extensive preparations must be undergone by the patient before the procedure
Prior to the procedure, the doctor will inform the patient of what preparations have to be made. In most cases, the patient should not eat or drink anything during the 8 hours prior to the procedure. The patent might also be given with antibiotics. A general anesthesia will be applied as well. Patients are usually given fluids and medications that help induce relaxation through an IV. The patient typically sleeps during surgery.
The patient's abdomen will be filled with carbon dioxide gas to make room for the laparoscope
During a laparoscopic procedure, it is important that the patient's abdomen has enough room for the surgical instruments and the laparoscope. Once the anesthesia has taken effect; the doctor will make a minimal cut in the abdomen of the patient. Carbon dioxide gas will then fill the abdomen through a needle inserted through the cut. The laparoscope will then be inserted into the cut, allowing the doctor to easily observe the various organs and tissues. Other small incisions may be necessary for introducing surgical tools needed for making repairs or treatments in the abdomen.
Knowing about the various aspects and procedures involved in laparoscopy can aid patients in knowing the necessary preparations and risks that it entails.
