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. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and coeliac disease are some examples of chronic gastrointestinal diseases, which may lead to persistent abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and inflammation.
Laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery can be utilised for both acute and chronic gastrointestinal disorders, depending on the severity of the condition.
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, and the surgery usually causes minimal scarring.
Laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery can treat various medical conditions, such as:
These are just a few examples, and the applicability of laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery usually depends on the patient’s overall health condition and the severity of their disease.
If you suffer from gastrointestinal disorders, schedule an appointment with ACE Specialist Surgery and Endoscopy for laparoscopic or minimally invasive and personalised treatment options tailored to your needs.
Upon admission to the hospital for the laparoscopic surgery, 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. 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. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance on your expected recovery time.
The number of treatment sessions required for laparoscopic surgery for acute and chronic disorders depends on the severity of the condition.
For most patients, laparoscopic surgery for acute conditions such as appendicitis or gallbladder inflammation involves 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 surgeries or treatments to manage their conditions.
Laparoscopic surgery is effective for many gastrointestinal conditions, but its suitability depends on the patient's overall health condition and disease severity. Your endocrinologist will determine the most suitable treatment option for your case.
Recovery times vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder. However, patients generally experience shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries than traditional open surgery.
While laparoscopic surgery is considered safe, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding organs. However, you can discuss your concerns with your healthcare team, as they usually take adequate measures to minimise these risks before the procedure.