Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which a thin camera is inserted through tiny incisions, allowing the doctor to see and assess what is happening inside the body. Laparoscopic surgical procedures are just as safe as any other type of surgery, but since this is a relatively new technology, many people have questions about just what is involved. Here’s what you should know about laparoscopic surgical procedures 

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Laparoscopic Surgery

How is it performed?

First, the surgeon makes several small cuts in the area of the body to be explored. These incisions are often no more than a half-inch in length. The surgeon inserts a long, slender tube, outfitted with a camera and a light on the end, into each opening. With the help of cameras, the surgeon guides equally thin surgical instruments into the incisions to operate.

What are the benefits?

In a traditional surgery, surgeons open the chest or abdomen with a long cut, sometimes up to a foot in length. These lengthy incisions require diligent aftercare and longer recovery times. Since laparoscopic surgery eliminates these overlong incisions, downtime is usually significantly shorter. Scars are smaller, you're out of the hospital faster, and you can resume normal daily activities sooner.

What surgeries are done laparoscopically?

Surgeons perform many intestinal procedures with laparoscopy, including gallbladder removals, appendectomies, and hernia repairs. Hysterectomies, tubal ligations, and ectopic pregnancies are also treated with it. Laparoscopy can be effective at removing some types of cancers as well.

How do patients prepare for it?

In general, a patient follows preprocedural guidelines similar to any other type of surgery. Most laparoscopic procedures involve anesthesia. Patients, therefore, are required to fast for at least six hours before their operations.

Have someone to drive you home for same-day procedures. Dress comfortably. You’ll put on a hospital gown for the surgery, but loose, comfortable clothing to wear afterward won’t aggravate incision sites.

To see if a laparoscopic surgical procedure is right for you, contact Ozark Surgical Group. Since 1977, they’ve been providing a variety of surgical options to Baxter County, AR, residents. Their services include vascular and abdominal surgeries as well as women's wellness exams. Call (870) 425-9120 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to meet the staff.