Glossary term · Treatment
Laparoscopy (also: Keyhole surgery, Laparoscopic surgery): Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery in which a camera on a thin tube is passed through a small abdominal incision to examine or operate on organs.
Laparoscopy is keyhole surgery used to diagnose and treat conditions inside the abdomen and pelvis. The NHS explains that it is done under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a small cut, usually near the belly button, inflates the abdomen with gas and inserts a thin tube with a camera. Extra small cuts allow instruments to pass through.
What can laparoscopy be used for?
The NHS lists diagnostic uses such as investigating appendicitis, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and some cancers. Operative uses include:
- Removing the appendix or gallbladder.
- Repairing hernias.
- Removing the womb or fibroids.
- Treating an ectopic pregnancy.
- Weight loss surgery.
What are the risks?
The NHS describes complications as rare. They include the need to switch to open surgery, a hernia at the incision, damage to an organ such as the bladder or to a blood vessel, a serious reaction to the anaesthetic and blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis.
What travel points should you check?
The NHS advises avoiding driving, flying and alcohol for 48 hours after a laparoscopy. Your surgeon may advise a longer wait after a bigger operation, so ask before booking flights. Ask who will remove stitches or clips if needed and what wound care you need on the journey. The NHS lists warning signs that need prompt medical help. These include fever, worsening abdominal pain, wound problems, leg pain or swelling and breathing difficulty. Keep that list with you when you travel.
Questions people ask
Is laparoscopy the same as endoscopy?
No. Laparoscopy passes a camera through a small cut in the abdominal wall. Endoscopy passes a camera through a natural opening, such as the mouth for an upper GI endoscopy. Both are minimally invasive.
Can a laparoscopy turn into open surgery?
Yes. The NHS lists the need for open surgery as one possible complication. Ask your surgeon how likely this is in your case, because it could change your recovery and how long you stay in India.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.