Laparoscopic surgery

What is laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopic or keyhole surgery is a type of surgery performed through a tiny incision in the skin. The incision is usually made away from the actual site of the area which needs treating. The incision is usually 1.5cm or less across, so it leaves very little scarring.

Why is laparoscopic surgery performed?

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most effective ways of treating issues in the pelvic area. Since it’s minimally invasive, there is a very low risk of infection and damage to the surrounding tissue. Patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery tend to recover a lot faster than those who have traditional surgery.

How is laparoscopic surgery performed?

Laparoscopic surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, so the patient will be asleep throughout the procedure. Dr Tshikosi makes one or more incisions in the abdomen, which allows him to insert the surgical tools and the tube used to inflate the area being operated on. Inflating gives Dr Tshikosi more space to work in. Once the procedure is done, the air that was pumped is let out, and the small incisions are stitched up. A dressing is then applied. The patient usually goes home the same day of the surgery.

What are the advantages of laparoscopic surgery?

• Less risky than traditional surgery: the danger of infection and stress to the body is much lower with laparoscopic surgery.
• Decreased post-surgery pain: a smaller incision and less disruption to the other organs means less chance of damage to other parts of the body.
• Shorter hospital stay: You can go home and be in your own surroundings in a much shorter time span than with traditional surgery.