Laparoscopies

A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to access the inside of the abdomen and pelvis without having to make large incisions in the skin. It is a minimally invasive technique, often referred to as keyhole surgery.

During a laparoscopy, a surgeon makes one or more small incisions, typically less than a centimeter long. A laparoscope, which is a thin, rigid tube with a camera and light source on the end, is inserted through one of these incisions. The camera transmits images to a video monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the internal organs. Additional small incisions may be made to introduce surgical instruments, such as graspers, scissors, or cautery devices.

The abdomen is often inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create space and improve visibility. This gas is usually removed at the end of the procedure. Laparoscopies are used for a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Diagnostically, they can help identify the cause of unexplained abdominal pain, infertility, or masses. Therapeutically, they are employed for procedures like gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), appendectomy, hernia repair, and gynecological surgeries such as tubal ligation or cyst removal.

The advantages of laparoscopy over traditional open surgery often include reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and less scarring. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding organs. The suitability of laparoscopy depends on the specific condition, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's expertise.