Overview
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery is used for many abdominal operations, such as gallbladder removal, appendix removal, hernia repair and anti-reflux surgery. Compared with open surgery, it usually means less pain, smaller scars and a faster recovery.
Why it is done
- Gallstones and gallbladder disease
- Appendicitis
- Hernias, including hiatal hernia
- Some bowel, stomach and spleen conditions
- To look inside the abdomen to find the cause of pain (diagnostic laparoscopy)
Before the surgery
You will have an assessment, blood tests and sometimes scans. You will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the operation.
During the surgery
Under general anaesthesia, the surgeon inflates the abdomen with gas and inserts a camera and instruments through small cuts. Sometimes the operation needs to be changed to open surgery for safety.
After the surgery
Many people go home the same day or within one to two days. Shoulder-tip pain from the gas is common for a day or two. Most people return to light activity within one to two weeks.
Risks
Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, blood clots and the need to convert to open surgery.
At KIH
KIH's laparoscopic surgery team performs a wide range of keyhole abdominal operations.
This information is for general education. Your doctor will explain whether this treatment is suitable for you, and its benefits and risks. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
