Laparoscopy Cancer Surgery
Laparoscopic Surgery: Procedure, Preparation, and Recovery
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine and treat conditions in the pelvis and abdomen. It involves the use of a laparoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip.
Surgeons make a small incision near the navel to insert the laparoscope, and additional small incisions may be made to introduce other surgical instruments. This type of surgery is also called keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery.
Why is Laparoscopic Surgery Needed?
Laparoscopic surgery is often recommended for diagnostic and treatment purposes, particularly for cancer-related procedures. According to the American Cancer Society, laparoscopic surgery is used for:
- Examining Abnormal Growths: When imaging tests reveal unusual areas, laparoscopy helps investigate the cause, including pelvic pain or tumors.
- Biopsy or Lymph Node Removal: Surgeons may collect tissue samples or remove lymph nodes from the pelvis or abdomen.
- Treatment of Certain Cancers: Laparoscopy is commonly used for small gynecological cancers (ovarian, endometrial, and cervical), as well as colorectal and kidney cancers.
How to Prepare for Laparoscopic Surgery?
Preparation involves several steps to ensure the surgery goes smoothly:
- Medication Review: Inform your doctor about all medications, including vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies. Mention any allergies.
- Blood Thinners: You may need to stop taking blood-thinning medications like aspirin a few days before surgery.
- Fasting: You’ll likely be instructed to avoid food and drinks for a few hours before the procedure.
- Follow Instructions: Your healthcare provider will give detailed preoperative instructions—follow them carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
What Happens During Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:
- Anesthesia and Breathing Support: You will receive anesthesia through an IV line to ensure you’re asleep during the procedure. A breathing tube will be placed in your throat and connected to a ventilator.
- Incision and Laparoscope Insertion: A small incision near the belly button is made to insert the laparoscope. The abdomen is inflated with gas for better visibility of internal organs.
- Surgical Tools: Additional small incisions may be made to insert cutting instruments. Suspicious areas can be biopsied or removed for examination.
- Closure: After completing the procedure, the instruments and most of the gas are removed. The small incisions are closed with stitches.
- Awakening: The breathing tube is removed as you are gently woken up.
The procedure usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on its complexity.
What Happens After Laparoscopic Surgery?
Postoperative care involves close monitoring:
- Initial Recovery: You will be observed for a few hours to ensure there are no complications. You may feel dizzy or drowsy as the anesthesia wears off.
- Throat Discomfort: You might experience throat numbness, soreness, or hoarseness due to the breathing tube.
- Pain: Mild pain or numbness near the incision sites is common. Gas used during the procedure may cause shoulder or stomach discomfort, which typically resolves in a few hours or days.
- Diet: You will not be allowed to eat or drink until your throat numbness subsides.
- Going Home: If your surgery is outpatient, you can usually return home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you.