What You Need to Know about Laparoscopic Surgery (Keyhole Surgery)
The information in this webpage is in a simple Q & A format, it aims to be a useful guide for Laparoscopic Surgery patients. Please consult your doctor if you require more information about the operation.
- What is laparoscopic surgery?
- What are the advantages of laparoscopic surgery over ‘open’ surgery?
- Are there any risks or side effects of laparoscopic surgery?
- Are there alternatives to laparoscopic surgery?
- Is everyone suitable for laparoscopic surgery?
- How is laparoscopic surgery carried out?
- How can I prepare for surgery?
- What can I expect after the operation?
- What are the things that I need to note after discharge?
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What is laparoscopic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, is a method of carrying out an operation without having to make a large incision (as is the case with conventional or ‘open’ surgery). Surgical scars are between 2mm - 10 mm in length.
Many types of operations can be performed using laparoscopic surgery. These include appendicitis, inguinal hernia, gallbladder removal, ventral hernia, hyperhidrosis, adrenal mass, achalasia, gastroesophageal reflux, and most other conventional operations.
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What are the advantages of laparoscopic surgery over ‘open’ surgery?
Compared to ‘open’ surgery, patients who have undergone laparoscopic surgery tend to recover more quickly, experience fewer side effects and feel less post-operative pain. The duration of hospitalisation required is also reduced.
A common side effect of ‘open’ surgery is the formation of adhesions, a condition where internal organs stick together and form bands of scar tissue. Adhesions can be painful and cause bowel obstruction. The risk of adhesions is reduced in laparoscopic surgery.
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Are there any risks or side effects of laparoscopic surgery?
All operations, including laparoscopic surgeries, carry a small risk of infection and bleeding. Anesthesia used in surgery also carries a risk of complication and may result in side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, headache, dizziness and shoulder pain. These are usually short-lived and do not require any specialised care. Remote injuries may involve the bowels and vessels which will require ‘open’ surgery.
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Are there alternatives to laparoscopic surgery?
All operations carried out as laparoscopic surgery can be carried out using ‘open’ surgery. However, ‘open’ surgery has its own disadvantages as listed previously.
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Is everyone suitable for laparoscopic surgery?
Most patients would be suitable candidates for laparoscopic surgery. However, some may not be able proceed with laparoscopic surgery due to reasons such as late pregnancy or unexpected intraoperative findings where ‘open’ surgery is needed. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the surgical options that are more suited for your condition.
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How is laparoscopic surgery carried out?
Small incisions are made in the abdomen after which a harmless gas is pumped in to create space for the surgeon to operate. Viewing equipment (comprising of a camera connected to a TV monitor) and surgical instruments are then inserted through the incisions into the newly formed space. With a clear image of the operating field projected onto the monitor, the surgeon then carries out the operation.
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How can I prepare for surgery?
The types of pre- and post-operative care required for ‘open’ and laparoscopic surgery are the same.
Prior to hospital admission for surgery, you will receive a letter listing the things you need to do/note to prepare for surgery (e.g. not eating and drinking for a length of time before surgery). It is important to follow all the instructions to ensure that your surgery can proceed as scheduled.
Your surgeon will explain the procedure and also answer any questions that you may have. You will also need to sign a consent form for surgery. The anaesthetist will also discuss the anesthesia options to you. If you have any medical conditions (such as drug allergies), please inform the doctors.
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What can I expect after the operation?
After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to allow the effects of anaesthesia to wear off. Thereafter, you will be warded for post-operative care.
If required, you can request for pain relief options such as:- Oral medication
- Nurse or patient-controlled analgesia (NCA or PCA). The amount of pain relief needed can be adjusted by either the nurse or the patient.
After surgery, you may not be able to eat or drink for a few hours and will be put on a intravenous drip.
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What are the things that I need to note after discharge?
After discharge, you may need some medication for pain relief. Paracetamol will normally suffice but if required, your doctor can prescribe you stronger pain relief medication. These prescribed medicines can be obtained from the hospital pharmacies.
Try to rest as much as possible and refrain from vigorous activities to allow your body to recover.
Most patients feel well enough to resume their normal activities and return to work, a week after the operation. Your doctor will advise when you can take up more vigorous activities and sports.
IMPORTANT:
You will need to return for a review appointment with your doctor in about four to six weeks after the operation.
Please see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:- Intense pain (which medication does not seem to relieve)
- Wound sites that are red, inflamed and feel warmer than the surrounding skin.
- Oozing from the wound sites.
Information in this webpage is given as a guide only and does not replace medical advice from your doctor. Please seek the advice of your doctor if you have any questions related to the surgery, your health or medical condition.
Information is correct at time of publishing (October 2003).
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