Laparoscopy and What it Means for You

Laparoscopy is a very common procedure used today to facilitate surgeries for different conditions. This could range anywhere from treating ovarian cysts to removing an appendix. I have had five of them so I should know. The procedure is not all that bad, and the recovery from the surgery is a lot quicker, because it's less invasive. Here are a few details.

Laparoscopy is done by using small incisions around the navel, where an instrument called a Trocar can be inserted. Through this a flexible tube can be inserted and can journey into the body to snap photographs and even perform removal of ovarian cysts, and fibroid tumors. Many people have now taken advantage of this method to have their gallbladder removed. But, don't be fooled; the recovery from the incisions is short, but depending on what they removed or what transpired during surgery, you could still have a long recovery period.

Before having a laparoscopy talk to your doctor. Ask questions about how long the procedure will take, and how many incisions they plan to make. Ask your doctor about your level of pain, and what it's expected to be. Generally, soreness is the most common complaint and for me that was the case. The pain was not so bad, but the incision around the navel can be quite painful.

For the first few days, just be careful how and where you move; that can really get you! Pain medicines are most likely only going to be used for a few days, then you can downgrade to something like Motrin. Due to the soreness I suggest wearing loose fitting clothing on the day of the surgery, this way there is no pressure on the incision.

Last but not least, be sure to talk to your doctor about when you can go back to work, and the results of your surgery. Laparoscopy is considered an exploratory surgery, so they are usually suggesting it to see if they see an otherwise unknown cause for your pain or illness. Laparoscopy isn't a bad surgery to have, but be sure to use Vitamin E on the incision, and it will heal up quite well!