Certainly! Laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery, is a surgical procedure that allows doctors to examine and operate on the internal organs using small incisions. It involves the use of a laparoscope, a long, thin tube with a light and camera attached to it.
During a laparoscopy, several small incisions are made in the abdomen, typically measuring about 0.5 to 1 centimeter in length. Carbon dioxide gas is then introduced into the abdominal cavity to create space and improve visibility. The laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions, allowing the surgeon to visualize the organs on a monitor.
Additional instruments may be inserted through the other incisions to perform various procedures, such as removing diseased tissues, taking biopsies, or repairing organs. These instruments are usually long and thin, designed to fit through the small incisions.
This type of laparoscope consists of a telescopic rod lens system that is typically connected to a video camera. The camera can be either a single chip or three chips, enabling visualization of the surgical site.
In this type, the laparoscope is equipped with a charge-coupled device (CCD) located at the end of the instrument. This eliminates the need for a rod lens system, as the CCD directly captures the images.
During the procedure, a small incision is made, usually 1 to 2cm in size, in or just below the belly-button. Through this incision, the laparoscope is gently inserted into the abdomen. The laparoscope is a sterile surgical instrument with specialized optics that allow for effective transmission of light. To create a clear visual field, carbon dioxide gas is pumped through a channel in the laparoscope into the abdomen, creating a space within which the surgeon can operate. Depending on the specific surgical requirements, additional instruments may be utilized alongside the laparoscope.
Laparoscopy is a commonly performed procedure for investigating abdominal or pelvic pain. It serves as a diagnostic tool for conditions like endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. In addition to its diagnostic role, laparoscopy can be utilized for various therapeutic purposes. It enables the removal of ovarian cysts and the release of adhesions caused by pelvic organ diseases. Many sterilization procedures are now carried out using laparoscopy. It is also a preferred method for managing ectopic pregnancies. Patients often prefer laparoscopic surgery due to its smaller scars and shorter hospital stays. However, it requires specialized training for surgeons and gynecologists, as well as the theater nursing staff. Additionally, the equipment can be expensive and may not be available in all hospitals.
The Laparoscopic surgery is helpful in the following conditions: