Surgery for Gastrointestinal Issues

What is laparoscopic/minimally invasive surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery, or minimally invasive surgery (MIS), is a modern surgical technique that helps surgeons perform various surgical procedures, including treating acute and gestational disorders with smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. 

Acute gastrointestinal disorders are sudden and short-term health issues that affect the digestive system, primarily caused by infections, food poisoning, or other temporary factors. These conditions are usually caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites and may result in diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. 

Chronic gastrointestinal disorders are long-lasting conditions often caused by underlying health issues or structural abnormalities that persist over an extended period. Examples of these are conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and coeliac disease. These may lead to persistent abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and inflammation.

Laparoscopic surgery can be utilised for both acute and chronic gastrointestinal disorders, depending on the severity of the condition. 

How does laparoscopic surgery work?

The surgeon creates multiple small incisions, typically measuring 0.5 to 1.5 centimetres, in the patient's abdominal area, referred to as "ports." 

A laparoscope, a slender tube-like instrument equipped with a camera and light source, is inserted through one of these ports. The camera provides a live video feed of the surgical site, displayed on a monitor in the operating room, which enables the surgeon to examine and treat the condition. 

Specialised surgical instruments are introduced through the remaining ports to help the surgeon remove the inflamed organ, for example, the appendix or gallbladder. After the procedure, the surgeon closes these small incisions with stitches or surgical glue. The surgery usually causes minimal scarring. 

Benefits of laparoscopic surgery

• Smaller incisions (ports) reduce tissue trauma
• Less post-operative pain
• Faster recovery times
• Shorter hospital stays
• Minimal scarring
• Reduced blood loss in acute cases
• Suitable for managing complications in chronic disorders

What conditions can laparoscopic surgery treat?

Laparoscopic surgery can treat various medical conditions, such as: 

• Abdominal and groin hernia repair: Laparoscopic technique can treat both inguinal (groin) and ventral (abdominal wall) hernias. 
• Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy): A laparoscopic procedure known as cholecystectomy that treats gallbladder issues, typically caused by gallstones.
• Appendectomy: Acute appendicitis can also be treated through laparoscopic surgery. 
• Gastrointestinal conditions: Laparoscopy can help treat acute and chronic gastrointestinal conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), achalasia, and Crohn's disease, among others.
• Gynaecological issues: Minimally invasive surgery can help with surgical procedures such as hysterectomy, endometriosis treatment, and uterine fibroids removal.
• Urological conditions: Laparoscopic surgery can also treat conditions like kidney or adrenal gland disorders and certain prostate conditions. 
• Bariatric surgery: Minimally invasive procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy can be performed to assist with weight loss.
• Thoracic and cardiac surgery: Minimally invasive techniques can be used to treat some cardiac and lung procedures. 
• Orthopaedic surgery: In some instances, such as arthroscopy, minimally invasive techniques are performed for joint and bone surgeries.
• ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) procedures: Minimally invasive surgery is often used in tonsillectomy, sinus surgery, and more.
• Cancer surgery: In some cases, minimally invasive techniques are utilised for cancer surgery, depending on the type and stage of the cancer . 
• Liver and pancreas surgery: Conditions affecting the liver and pancreas may be treated using laparoscopic surgery. 

These are just a few examples. The applicability of laparoscopic surgery usually depends on the patient’s overall health condition and the severity of their disease. 

What results can I expect? 

Upon admission to the hospital, a healthcare expert will perform the basic pre-operative assessments, including blood tests and physical examinations to ensure you are in the best possible condition. 

Following these preparations, you will be taken to the operating room for the procedure. After the surgery is complete, you will receive post-operative care, which involves monitoring in a recovery area and pain management. 

The minimally invasive approach typically results in less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery than open surgery. Your specialist will guide you on caring for your wound post-surgery and provide guidance on your expected recovery time.

Remember to restrict strenuous activities for a few days and follow dietary guidelines. 

Recovery outcomes vary based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.

How many treatment sessions are needed?

The number of treatment sessions required depends on the severity of the condition. 

For most patients, laparoscopic surgery for acute conditions such as appendicitis or gallbladder inflammation involves just a single surgical session, and once treated, they may not require further sessions. 

However, patients suffering from chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or diverticulitis may require additional surgeries or interventions. Some patients may even require periodic follow-up surgery or treatment to manage their conditions. 

If you suffer from gastrointestinal disorders, do schedule an appointment with us. Senior Consultant Dr Reyaz Singaporewalla is our expert in Laparoscopic surgery, and he'll work with you to determine the most suitable treatment option.