Laparoscopic Surgery
About Laparoscopic Surgery (endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids)
Laparoscopy or key hole surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where an instrument with a camera is passed through a small hole commonly in the umbilicus (belly button). Further cuts of 5mm may also be needed in the lower part of the abdomen to allow for instruments to be inserted. It can be used for diagnosing conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids, as well as performing treatments of various conditions such as removing ovarian cysts.
What are the advantages of laparoscopic surgery?
Faster recovery and return to normal work activities
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospitalisation
Better cosmetic outcome (with smaller scars)
Better visualisation of the disease by the surgeon allowing more accurate diagnosis
How can I best prepare for my surgery?
Ask questions? If unsure about anything you can always call Dr Brown’s rooms prior to surgery.
Bowels. Constipation can arise very easily after surgery, due to the surgery and anaesthetic, post operative medications and the reduced physical activity. Ensure you have a high fibre diet, good hydration and something to help keep you bowels regular at home for discharge ie. Osmolax or lactulose for the post-operative period so that constipation doesn’t happen to you.
Address your pelvic floor muscles. Surgery can worsen muscle spasm pain. Seeing a pelvic floor physio prior to surgery and having tools to relax your pelvic floor is imperative to aid your recovery.
Clean your belly button. Ideally a couple of days prior to surgery can help reduce your chance of a getting a skin infection at that site.
Stop smoking. Smoking is strongly associated with surgical complications. If you can reduce or quit prior to surgery it will reduce your risk of any complications arising.