Laparoscopy, also known as minimally invasive surgery or keyhole surgery, is a surgical technique used to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. It involves making small incisions in the abdominal wall and using a specialized instrument called a laparoscope to view and access the inside of the abdomen or pelvis. Here’s how laparoscopy works:
Small Incisions: Instead of making a large, open incision as in traditional surgery, laparoscopy involves making several small incisions (typically 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in length) in the abdominal wall. These small incisions are often referred to as “ports.”
Laparoscope: A laparoscope is a long, thin, and flexible tube with a high-resolution camera and a light source attached to its tip. This instrument is inserted through one of the small incisions and allows the surgeon to see the internal organs on a monitor.
Surgical Instruments: In addition to the laparoscope, other specialized surgical instruments can be inserted through the remaining small incisions. These instruments may include scissors, graspers, and cautery devices. Surgeons use these tools to perform various surgical procedures or manipulations inside the abdomen.
Carbon Dioxide Gas: To create space and provide better visibility inside the abdominal cavity, carbon dioxide gas is often pumped into the abdomen after the laparoscope is inserted. This lifts the abdominal wall away from the internal organs, making it easier for the surgeon to work.
Procedure: Depending on the specific procedure, the surgeon can perform tasks such as removing diseased tissue, taking biopsies, repairing damaged organs, or performing other surgical interventions using the laparoscopic instruments.
Benefits of laparoscopy include smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and reduced scarring compared to traditional open surgery. It is commonly used in various surgical fields, including gynecology, urology, general surgery, and gastroenterology.
Laparoscopy is not suitable for all surgical procedures, and its appropriateness depends on the patient’s condition, the surgeon’s expertise, and the complexity of the surgery. Your healthcare provider will determine whether laparoscopy is the best approach for your particular case.