Things To Do Before And After A Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopy surgery or keyhole surgery is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure, preferably performed for curing various diseases and conditions. It is usually done in cases where traditional non-invasive diagnosis and imaging techniques (Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI scan) cannot identify any clear reasons for a certain condition. It is a low-risk procedure used for examining pelvic organs like the appendix, gallbladder, pancreas, liver, etc.
Although rare, there are some risks attached too: the most common being bleeding and infection. But doctors/surgeons refer diagnostic laparoscopy only after proper consideration of the patient's history and the risk factors involved. Equally important is the role of the patient for ensuring a safe recovery. This blog highlights some of the important things that patients can follow before and after the laparoscopic procedure for minimizing risk as well as accelerating recovery.
Before Surgery
Laparoscopy diagnosis is usually carried out within 4-5 hours, and for most patients, the length of stay is not more than 24 hours. However, in cases where a patient has a critical medical history, and the surgery is complex, the length of stay extends over to a few days. In either case, there are a few things that patients can do to prepare better and smarter.
1. Clear All Your Doubts:
It is natural for patients to be wary and fearful about surgery. Patients, however, must bear in mind that discussing one's apprehensions is an excellent way to get over any anxiety. Let's say a patient is fearful of the pain that the invasion might cause. The patient must discuss the same with the surgeon. The surgeon will explain the procedure and the pain management steps involved. In addition to this, doctors also suggest relaxation techniques that are very fruitful for the patients.
2. Pack Essentials Too:
Depending on the length of the stay, patients must make a list of essential items that they would need. These may include like toothbrush/toothpaste, mobile charger, hairbrush, skin lotions, etc. In case of overnight stays, patients must carry loose fitting clothes that do not put strain or stress around the waist and abdominal region.
3. Bowel Preparation:
Bowel prep is an essential prerequisite of any surgical procedure. Doctors usually suggest liquid diets for bowel evacuation. However, in case there are some special instructions, patients must pay heed and follow them steadfastly.
Dr. Vivek Agarwal, Laparoscopic Surgeon at Medipulse, says, “Although, laparoscopic surgeries require minimal invasion yet patients must be careful and consult in case of any infection around the insertion site like redness, swelling, etc ”
After Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery involves small incisions, and patients are subjected to only general anesthesia. However, the procedure does involve CO2 gas insertion into the abdominal area through the incision. This inflates the abdomen and aids in easy diagnosis by creating space for free movement of the laparoscope. In some cases, the surgeon may create some more incisions for apt diagnosis and treatment. Following the diagnosis, patients may feel some amount of pain, nausea during the first few hours. Patients must feel free to share their concerns with the doctors. In addition to this, a few things must be followed for a faster recovery. These include:
1. Managing Shoulder Pain:
Shoulder pain is a common occurrence post laparoscopy. The pain is due to the CO2 introduced in the abdomen during the procedure. But there is no reason to panic as the pain subsides with time. In the meantime, one can use heat therapy for lessening the pain.
2. Get An Aid:
For a few weeks, it might be difficult to do routine tasks with the same ease as before. Doctors advise against driving as well as carrying a heavy load. The best solution is to hire an aide for a few weeks who can take care of important things like food, grocery, etc.
3. Don’t Overthink
The post-surgery days can be both emotionally and physically challenging. The tickling sensations in an around the incision site and the post-surgery tiredness can be bothering. It is easy to drift into a self-pity mode and grow anxious. However, patients must remember not to let these thoughts overpower them. The best way to do so is to keep oneself occupied by inviting friends over, or reading a book or watching movies.
In general, the recovery time is at the most a week. But depending upon the complexity of the case and other factors, it may be considerably longer for some. Medipulse is ranked for the best laparoscopic surgery in Jodhpur. Medipulse has two of the most experienced laparoscopic surgeons in Jodhpur - Dr. Kamal Kant and Dr. Vivek Agarwal as well as Dr. Mili Inania - one of the best gynec laparoscopic surgeon in Jodhpur.
The department is equipped with modern technology and equipment offering excellence in all forms of general and specialized surgical procedures. Visit the link for more details.