Laparoscopic surgery is a common procedure for women who require an assessment to determine the causes of certain gynaecological symptoms they may be experiencing.
No woman has the same experience when preparing for, or undergoing the surgery, but below is a guideline to help women feel more ready for what they should expect when undergoing the procedure.
The overview:
Laparoscopic surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic. In most procedures, a small incision is made into the abdomen and then CO2 gas is released, this allows the surgeons to have a better view of the internal organs.
Some surgeons use video cameras in surgery that are attached to the laparoscope, which enlarges the view. The surgeon will examine the pelvic organs and look for any abnormalities.
The hospital stay:
Most laparoscopic surgeries are completed on an outpatient basis, and it is rare that a patient will need to stay overnight. Despite this, it is advised for women to mentally prepare and pack an overnight bag in case they need to stay.
The preparation:
It is likely that a woman will experience fear and anxiety in the lead up to her surgery. Talking to a doctor or peer is a good way to alleviate these fears.
Most surgeries will also require bowel prep which usually involves consuming a liquid diet the day prior, to ensure the bowels are completely emptied.
The recovery:
Nausea is common after laparoscopic surgery and natural remedies such as herbal teas and ginger are recommended.
Some women may also experience pain, particularly in the shoulder region, when waking up from the anaesthetic. This is caused by a residue of CO2 gases becoming trapped in the diaphragm. The pain can be relieved with heat, blankets and pain killers.
Some women are also advised to not drive for 2 weeks after the surgery and that they may feel the occasional feeling of numbness or tingling where the incisions were made.
Laparoscopic surgery is never expected to be an enjoyable experience, but it can be a necessity to tackle the symptoms of serious illnesses.
When performed by elite gynaecologists such as Miss Tania Adib, a patient can expect to be treated with the greatest care and receive empathetic and insightful advice. A specialist in gynaecological oncology, Miss Tania Adib is renowned for her experience in performing laparoscopic surgery.