Laparoscopic surgery generally refers to a minimally invasive surgical technique where surgeons perform surgery through several small incisions using a camera to view the procedure on a TV monitor. Because of advances in surgical instrumentation and imaging devices, the incisions are considerably smaller than with traditional or open surgical techniques.
How advanced laparoscopic surgery is done?
During the surgery, the surgeon uses laparoscopy to diagnose/treat the problem. Laparoscopy is a thin and long tube that is put into the abdomen after the incision is made. This device has a camera attached to it which allows the surgeon to the inside of the abdomen with ease. Through this device, the pelvic organ and abdomen are seen easily. In case, there is some issue then an instrument might be inserted into the abdomen and a laparoscope is inserted which is referred to as single-site laparoscopy.
What are the reasons to undergo advanced laparoscopic surgery?
This surgical approach is done during tubal sterilization and the patients who have had a hysterectomy are a suitable candidate for it. During this approach, the uterus is detached from the body through the incision. Moreover, this approach can be helpful to determine:
- Reason for the pelvic mass
- How to remove the pelvic mass?
Apart from these, the surgeon can use this surgical approach for different reasons which includes:
- Fibroids Fibroids: are abnormal growth, on or outside the uterus wall. Sometimes, these are not cancerous and sometimes they are cancerous. Advanced surgery will remove the fibroids.
- Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts are developed on the ovaries. Sometimes, these will go away on their own, and sometimes medical treatment is needed. This advanced approach will safely remove the cyst.
- Endometriosis: If medications are not beneficial, then advanced laparoscopic surgery is done. Under this approach, the pelvis is looked at closely. If there is the presence of endometriosis tissue then surgery is done.
- Pelvic Floor Conditions: Advanced laparoscopic surgery is done in case of urinary incontinence and case of other pelvic issues like pelvic organ prolapse.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: The doctor will suggest advanced laparoscopic surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy.
- Cancer: In case of cancer, the doctor will perform advanced surgery to address the problem of ovarian cancer.
What happens after the surgery?
Once the surgery is done, the incision is closed. The sedation effect will reduce within 1 or 2 hours and sometimes there will be nausea. The patient can get back to their home on the same day. Although, you must visit for the follow-up checkups from time to time and follow all the suggestions given by your doctor.
Is advanced laparoscopy surgery (ALS) risky?
The risks associated with Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery vary between individuals. During your consultation, your Doctor will discuss with you in detail whether you would benefit from a laparoscopy, they will review the risks and benefits as they apply to your individual circumstances and alleviate any concerns that you may have, before scheduling you in for your procedure. You will be provided with detailed information on the procedure as it relates to you, as well as comprehensive pre- and post-operative instructions to optimise the procedure and your recovery.
How long will it take to recover from Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery?
You will need to take time off work to accommodate your laparoscopy, after which the duration of recovery is dependent on the extent of the surgery. Generally speaking, more minor procedures will take less than one hour and full recovery can be expected within a few days, while longer operations can take place over many hours and may see recovery take up to 4 weeks.