Fields of treatment / Surgery, laparoscopy, hernias, excision / Diagnostic laparoscopy

Diagnostic laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a medical procedure used for diagnosis and treatment. It is a keyhole type of surgery. The surgeon uses a laparoscope (a long fiber optic cable system). Also attached is a source of cold light. The procedure is a modern surgical technique, allowing the surgeon to examine and treat abdomen conditions. There are several advantages to the patient, that include shorter recovery time and less visible post operative scars.  It is routinely used in surgery, gynecology and urology.

Information and appointments

One Day Surgery Centre Hradec Králové
recepce@1chirurgie.cz / +420 495 269 768 (weekdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m)
Štefánikova 454/28a, 500 11 Hradec Králové (Hvězda Complex)

Diagnostic laparoscopy is mostly used:

  • to examine abdominal pain where the cause in unknown
  • in gynecology (for inflammation, sterility issues)
  • in oncology to examine neoplasms

FAQ

What are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery over open traditional surgery?

  • minimum post-operative complications (lower risk of hemorrhaging, better healing of incisions, lower risk of adhesions
  • lower post operative pain
  • digestion gets back to normal faster
  • faster healing
  • significantly lower recovery time, less time spent out of work
  • better cosmetic results (minor scarring only)

Each surgery performed under general anesthesia carries some degree of risks and complications. However, they are much less frequent in laparoscopic surgeries than in open ones. The risks typically include post-operative hemorrhaging or tissue damage in abdominal cavity.  At later stages, there may be site infection incisional hernia or peritoneal adhesions.

You will have a complex preoperative exam before your surgery. This will include several lab tests such as blood and urine tests. Other exams may be necessary to evaluate your history of past conditions, medication you might be taking, allergies and risks you may face when you are under general anesthesia.

You will arrive at our center on the day your surgery is scheduled to minimize hospitalization time. You must not eat or drink anything after midnight. You must not smoke or drink alcohol prior to your surgery. Tell your doctor if you need to take any medication.

You will have to remove jewelry, artificial teeth and your contact lenses. Women must not wear any make-up.

Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia. It usually takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Carbon dioxide will be put into your belly through a tiny needle, causing the belly to swell up. This makes it easier for the surgeon to see the inside better. After that, several small incisions (around 1-1,5 cm in size) will be made and laparoscope and other tools will be put in. Once the procedure is done, carbon dioxide will be sucked out and cuts will be closed with stitches.

After your surgery is done, you will be taken to the post operative care unit, where you will be monitored. The same day in the evening, you will be fine enough to get out of bed and drink some fluids.  You will be sent home one or two days after your surgery when you are stable and have no complications. Your stitches will be taken out in 7 to 10 days.

Some carbon dioxide may still be left in your belly. As a result, you may feel some pain in your shoulders, and you may be flatulent too. You will feel better after a few days, however.

You are OK to gently wash and dry your cuts on the third day after your surgery.  After your cuts heal completely, you will be OK to wash as normal.

Recovery period will vary depending on the type of surgery, complications and your overall condition. Recovery normally takes 4 weeks. You will have to limit your physical activity and especially avoid heavy lifting for 3 months. You will spend 2 to 3 weeks off work depending on the type of your job.

If you had digestive system surgery, your doctor would advise you on your eating habits as a regimen is recommended.  A few days after the procedure, you should eat light meals only. Avoid fresh fruit, carbonated drinks, legumes and fatty meals in general.

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