New-age treatment

Published On: June 9, 2017 10:33 AM NPT By: Dr Rangina Laikangbam


There is also a general lack of knowledge and awareness about Laparoscopy, which is why many women don’t opt for it despite it having many benefits as compared to a traditional open surgery. 

There is a revolution happening in the modern practice of medicine, particularly in the field of surgery. This surgical revolution evolved out of the so-called “information age” of the late 20th century and early 21st century. The current trend in surgery toward minimally invasive and noninvasive therapeutic procedures is another result of newer technologies generated by information science. 

While doctors do try to treat their patients with the newest technologies, often times patients are hesitant to opt for it because they simply don’t know what it is and what you don’t know, you tend to fear. There is also a general lack of knowledge and awareness about Laparoscopy, which is why many women don’t opt for it despite it having many benefits as compared to a traditional open surgery. But it’s also important to know that this ‘new’ technology has been practiced for years abroad. It’s just that Nepal has lagged behind in adopting this method of surgery. 

However, it is also important to remember that Laparoscopic surgery is different for everyone. Each patient will have a different experience based on the extent of surgery, surgeon involved, how he/she responds to pain, and many other such factors. But, here is some basic information regarding Laparoscopy. Armed with this knowledge, I hope the next time around anyone needs to undergo a surgical procedure they won’t hesitate to opt for Laparoscopy. 

What is Laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure used to exam the organs inside the abdominal region. A laparoscope, an instrument that’s a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front, is passed into the abdomen through a small incision in the area. It is a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure as only small incisions are made to insert the Laparoscope. 

Why is it performed?
Laparoscopy allows your doctor to see inside your body in real time, without open surgery. It can be done to find causes of infertility and pelvic pain and biopsy samples can also be obtained during this procedure. It’s usually performed when other noninvasive methods are unable to help with diagnosis. A doctor usually recommends laparoscopy to examine the appendix, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, small and large intestines, sleep, stomach, and the reproductive organs. By doing this, the doctor will be able to determine if there is a cancerous mass present in a certain organ, the degree to which a cancer has progressed, as well as track the progress of treatments. 

The advantages of this procedure
Laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, has several advantages over traditional open surgery. The trauma to the skin and muscle is reduced and there is less scarring post surgery. Also, since there is less post-operative pain there will be less use of postoperative pain medications. There will also be less blood lost so blood transfusion might not be needed either. Overall, this procedure ensures a shorter hospital stay and a quicker and better recovery period.

The risks involved 
The most common risks associated with laparoscopy are bleeding and infection. But these are rare. During the procedure, there is also a small risk of damage to the organs being examined but again, the chances are low. However, it’s important to keep a careful watch for any signs of infection after you get the procedure done. You should contact your doctor if you have chills or fever, develop redness or swelling, experience shortness of breath and feel lightheaded. Seek medical help if you are unable to urinate or have nausea or pain. Though nausea is fairly common, you might still want to consult with your doctor. You might have pins and needles sensation at the incision site. But this will subside over time. 

Things to do beforehand
Before you opt for a Laparoscopy procedure, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Also tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This will reduce the risk of harm to your developing baby. Right before laparoscopy, your doctor may order blood tests, urinalysis, electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), and chest X-ray. Your doctor might also perform certain imaging tests, including an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI scan. These tests will help your doctor better understand the abnormality being examined during laparoscopy. 

Though this procedure is minimally invasive and you will be discharged the same day (although an overnight stay might be required if the surgery is complex), have a family member or friend drive you home after the procedure. Laparoscopy is often performed under general anesthesia, which can make you drowsy and unable to drive for several hours post surgery.

drrangina.rl@gmail.com


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