Laparoscopic Exploratory Surgery

Exploratory laparoscopy has often been used for

diagnostic purposes to view the abdomen after abdominal
trauma and in cases of abdominal illness.
Laparoscopy is a term given to a group of operations that
are performed with the aid of a camera placed in the
abdomen. Originally, the laparoscope was used during
surgical removal of the gallbladder (laparoscopic
cholecystectomy) and appendix (laparoscopic
appendectomy).
Now the laparoscope also allows physicians to perform
minimally invasive surgery with just a small incision in
the abdomen. This technology, known as laparoscopic
assisted surgery, enables the minimally invasive removal
of the colon, and the weight reducing procedure gastric
bypass.
The procedure is usually done in the hospital, under
general anesthesia, and after informed consent has been
obtained. A catheter (a small flexible tube) is inserted
through the urethra into the bladder. An additional tube
may be passed through the nostril and into the stomach
to remove intestinal contents (N-G tube). The skin of the
abdomen is cleansed, and sterile drapes are applied.
A small incision is made above or below the navel to
allow the insertion of a trocar (essentially a tube
extending from inside the abdomen to the outside),
which allows passage of a video camera. Prior to
insertion of the trocar, a needle is inserted into the
incision and carbon dioxide gas is injected to elevate the
abdominal wall, and thereby create a larger space to
work in. This allows for easier viewing and manipulation
of the organs.
After an adequate amount of gas is instilled, the
laparoscope is inserted, and the organs of the pelvis and
abdomen are examined. Additional small incisions are
made for instruments that allow the surgeon to move the
abdominal organs, cut tissue, suture, and staple
structures to safely and effectively perform the necessary
procedure.
Following the examination, the laparoscope is then
removed, the incisions are closed with sutures, and
bandages are applied. Depending upon the operation
performed, a drain may be left through one of the
incisions to allow for removal of accumulated fluid.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
After making small incisions while the patient is asleep
and under the effects of anesthesia, the doctors use
small scopes and specially designed tools to perform the
surgery, which includes exploratory, appendix, hernia,
gallbaldder, colon and hiatal hernia procedures. The colon
is a part of the digestive system. A healthy colon helps
form the solid stool that is later expelled by the body. But
growths or inflammation within the colon can cause colon
problem which prevents the colon from working properly.
Thus, the infected part of the colon needs to be removed.

Part or all of the colon can be removed laparoscopically

without causing serious health concerns. Surgeries
remove the affected piece in a process called a resection.
Then the two ends are stapled together, which is called
anastomosis.
If the affected part is cancerous, this surgery removes
the cancer and some of the surrounding tissue and lymph
glands to help reduce the chance of a recurrence. The
surgeon preserves the colon's tubelike shape, allowing
waste to pass through it easily, and retain normal bowel
function.
Some common colon problems include:
Polyps, which are tissue growth in the colon linings. If
caught early, they frequently are not cancerous, but as
they grow larger it becomes more likely they will become
cancerous. Thus, removing the polyp early may decrease
the risk of colon cancer.
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis are two other related
colon conditions. Diverticulosis occurs when small
pouches form on the lining of the colon. Diverticulitis
occurs when one of these pouches becomes infected and
inflamed. In some cases, the pouch also may break.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a condition that
causes swelling, inflammation, and sores in the digestive
system. Patients with untreated IBD may be at higher
risk of colon cancer.
Overview & Description
An abdominal exploration, or laparotomy, is a surgical
procedure that allows a surgeon to look inside the
abdominal cavity.
Who is a candidate for the procedure?
An exploratory laparotomy is often done when a person
complains of abdominal pain. It can also be performed
after an injury to the abdomen. The operation allows the
surgeon to examine internal organs. Disease or damage
can be uncovered. In some cases, the problem can be
corrected during the surgery.
How is the procedure performed?
There are two methods for performing an abdominal
exploration:
 Laparoscopy. In this procedure, the surgeon uses a
camera on the end of a long tube, called a laparoscope.
The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision in
the abdomen.
 Laparotomy. This is a surgical procedure in which a
large incision is made in the abdomen to view the interior
directly.
Both procedures require general anesthesia. A medicine
is given to put the person to sleep. A tube is inserted
through the person's mouth. This is connected to a
ventilator, or artificial breathing machine.
Once the person is asleep, the surgeon begins the
procedure. He or she makes a cut in the skin and enters
the abdomen. A large cut is made for a laparotomy. This
allows the surgeon to view the organs directly.
In a laparoscopy, the surgeon makes several small skin
incisions in different parts of the abdomen. A thin tube
with a light and camera on the end of it is inserted
through one of the small cuts. This allows the surgeon to
see the inside of the abdomen. Surgical tools are inserted
through the other incisions. This lets the surgeon move
or cut tissues when needed.
In both procedures, the surgeon looks at the abdominal
organs. These include the intestines, liver, stomach,
spleen, and pancreas. If a problem is spotted, the
surgeon will often try to fix it at that time.
Preparation & Expectations
What happens right after the procedure?
After the operation is over, the person will be taken to
the recovery room. It is common for the individual to feel
nauseated. There may be discomfort from the incision.
Pain is usually greater after a laparotomy. The doctor will
prescribe medicines to reduce the nausea and discomfort.
After the anesthesia has worn off, the person will return
to his or her hospital room to recover. With a
laparoscopy, the person can sometimes go home on the
same day as the procedure.

Home Care and Complications

What happens later at home?
After the procedure, the individual's surgeon will provide
specific instructions for recovery at home. Pain medicines
are often needed for a few days. The person should
slowly increase his or her activity level. He or she should
return to a normal diet as soon as it is tolerated. The
length of the recovery time needed will depend on which
procedure was performed. People undergoing a
laparoscopy will be back to their normal activities much
sooner. Recovery will also be affected by any problems
that were found during the surgery.
What are the potential complications after the procedure?
Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction
to anesthesia. Any new or worsening symptoms should
be reported to the healthcare provider.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy Versus
Exploratory Laparotomy
Dr. Walid Sharaf Abdulla Abdulrahman; Prof. Dr. R. K.
Mishra
Projected to be submitted towards completion of Combined
Course of Fellowship and Diploma in Minimal Access Surgery,
World Laparoscopy Hospital, New Delhi, India.
ABSTRACT:
Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical
procedure that allows the visual examination and
documentation of intra abdominal organs in order o
detect any pathology. Diagnostic laparoscopy was first
introduced in 1901, when kelling, performed a
peritoneoscopy in a dog and was called “Celioscopy”. A
Swedish internist named Jacobaeuse its credited with
performing the first Diagnostic laparoscopy on human in
1910. He described its application in patient with ascites
and for the early diagnosis of malignant lesion. Elective
diagnosis laparoscopy refers to the use of the procedure
in chronic intra-abdominal disorders. Emergency
diagnostic laparoscopy is performed in patients
presenting with acute abdomen. This document describe
compare the diagnostic laparoscopy with exploratory
laparotomy. Diagnostic laparoscopy is safe well tolerated
and can be performed in an outpatient and inpatient
setting under general anaesthesia.
KEY WORDS:
Diagnostic Laparoscopy, Acute Appendicitis, Abdominal
lymphoma, Primary and Secondary Malignancies, Gastric
Cancer, Pancreatic Head Mass, Minimally Invasive
Surgery in Pediatric Cancer Patients, Evaluation of Viral
Hepatitis Patient with Potentially Resectable
Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Duodenal Perforation, Acute
Peritonitis, Sickles Cell Disease, Abdominal Trauma,
Gynecological, Torted Ovarian Cysts, Ectopic Pregnancy,
AIMS:
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness
an safety of Diagnostic laparoscopy and in comparison
with the exploratory laparotomy. Following parameters
were evaluated for both Diagnostic laparoscopic and
exploratory laparotomy.
1) Method of patient selection.
2) Operative technique.
3) Operating time.
4) Intra Operative and post Operative
complication.
5) Postoperative pain and amount of narcotics
used.
6) Time until resumption of diet.
7) Post operative morbidity.
8) Hospital stay.
9) Cost effectiveness
10) Quality of life analysis.
MATERIAL AND METHODS:
A literature search was performed using search engine
Google, Pubmed, High Wire, Online Springer library
facility available at The World Laparoscopy Hospital,
New Delhi, India. Selected papers were screened for
further references
CONTENTS:
The first step in diagnostics laparoscopy is through a
systemic approach to exploration is essential to ensure
that nothing is missed. At the time of diagnostics
laparoscopy all the abdominal organs are inspected for
any gross anatomical abnormalities. If there is fluid is
present samples are taken for lab. Test.
ACUTE APPENDICITIS:
Laparoscopy is the only diagnostic procedure other
than formal laparotomy that allows direct visualization
of the appendix. The entire appendix must be seen
before the operator can conclude it is normal (free of
disease) feasibility of laparoscopy in obese patients and
those with previous abdominal operation depend on
the surgeon experience with the procedure. Diagnostics
laparoscopy is most useful for female patient, since a
gynecologic cause of symptoms is identified in
approximately 10% to 20% of women with suspicion of
appendicitis. The procedure begins with diagnostics
laparoscopy and continues with appendectomy if
appropriate. This benefits is greater for women, who
have higher negative appendectomy rate, and in whom
laparoscopy often reveals other pathology. Exploratory
laparotomy for diagnosis appendicitis is rarely used [1]
[3] [4] [5] [6].
ABDOMINAL LYMPHOMA:
The medical records of patients with suspected primary
or recurrent lymphoma who underwent laparoscopy
between March 1991 and March 2003 were reviewed.
Demographic, clinical, operative, and pathologic data
were collected. The feasibility, safety and effectiveness
of the laparoscopic procedure were assessed.
Laparoscopic lymph node biopsy safely provides
adequate tissue for full histological evaluation on
outpatient basis in most patients with intra-abdominal
lymphoma. Laparoscopy biopsy was attempted in 94
patients. In 21 patients (22%), the procedure was
performed in those with a prior diagnosis of lymphoma
for presumed intra-abdominal relapse and in 73
patients (78%) to establish a new diagnosis of
lymphoma. The study of population include 47 men
(50%) and 47 women (50%). The median patient age
was 60 yrs operative of the 94 patient, 22 (23%) had a
history of previous abdominal or pelvic operation [8]
[9] [10]. Two cannulas were used in 21 operation
(22%), 3 cannulas in 51 (54%) and 4 cannulas in
22(23%). The procedure was completed
laparoscopically in 78 patients (83%). The median
operating time was 31 minutes (rang, 7-94 min).
during the laparoscopic procedure biopsy specimens
were obtained from the following lymph node site : 48
mesentic lymph nodes (51%), 12 masses not
otherwise specified but located mostly at the me
sentence root (13%), 7 paraortic lymph nodes (7%),
and retro peritoneal lymph node (6%) and
miscellaneous site. After laparoscopic biopsy was
performed in 36 patients who underwent preoperative
core needle biopsy, 28 patient (78%) were definitively
diagnosed as having malignant lymphoma with
complete typing in all patient, 2 (6%) had an adeno
carcinoma, 1 (3%) had an epitheloid leomyo sarcoma
and 5 (14%) had benign adenopathy [11] [12] [13]
[14].
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY MALIGNANCIES:
Diagnostics laparoscopy combined with laparoscopic
ultra sonography is an adequate staging modality for
primary liver malignancies for colorectal liver
metastasis, more liberal resection criteria, a high
failure rate due to adhesion from previous surgery, and
better preoperative probably result in a lower efficacy
[15]. Laparoscopy with laparoscopic USG avoids
unnecessary exploratory laparotomy in patients with
HCC [25].
GASTRIC CANCER:
Peritoneal seeding or liver metastases found at
laparotomy usually preclude curative treatment in
patients with gastric Aden carcinoma. Such exploratory
laparotomy may be avoided by diagnostic laparoscopy.
One hundred and twenty consecutive patient with
primary gastric Adenocarcinoma were studied
prospectively diagnostic laparoscopy was performed in
patient with clinical T4 tumors or suspected
metastases, unless laparotomy was required for
symptomatic disease . Diagnostic laparoscopy in
selected patients effectively limits the number of
unnecessary invasive staging procedures. Routine use
of diagnostics laparoscopy in all patients with gastric
Adenocarcinoma is not warranted [26].
PANCREATIC HEAD MASS:
Laparoscopy has its role in diagnosis, in histological
confirmation, in staging, and, in certain situations, in
therapy. Laparoscopy enables us to examine the
serosal surfaces of the anterior abdominal wall
diaphragm, falciform ligament, omentum, pelvic
viscera, bowels and their mesenteries. We can
insufflate and enter the lesser sac and mobilize the
head of the pancreas. Particular attention is directed
toward the pelvis, as it is often the site of the earliest
metastatic disease due its gravitational dependence.
Anatomic survey of the liver, biliary tree, pancreas and
peripancreatic structures is mandatory. However, by
itself, it does not assessing non-resectability (T stage)
compared with US (100% vs. 64%; P< 0.05) and CT
(100% vs. 47%; P< 0.005) . No imaging investigation
is able to assess the N stage accurately. Nodal
enlargement is frequently the result of reactive
hyperplasia and smaller nodes may harbour micro
metastasis. Nodal malignancy requires biopsy
confirmation. In M stage, laparoscopy with LUS is
significantly more sensitive than US (94% vs. 29%; P<
0.001) and CT (94% vs. 33%; P< 0.005) . Because
laparoscopy with LUS is the most reliable method for
verifying metastatic changes, it reliably predicts tumor
non-resectability [30]. For benign lesions - such as
pancreatic insulinoma,- LUS is one of the most
sensitive tools available. Its detection rate is 83-100%
[31]. All non-resectable patients could be found with
the combination of BUS plus laparoscopy plus LUS
[32]. Laparoscopy with L US should be considered to
be the first step in any potentially curative surgical
procedure [32].
PEDIATRIC CANCER PATIENTS:
MIS in children is a rapidly expanding field with many
diagnostic and therapeutic indications, with utility not
only as an adjuvant for patients undergoing cancer
therapy, but also as a primary treatment of
malignancy. Laparoscopy have been well described
and have been proven effective in the treatment of
many nonmalignant states, including appendectomy,
Fundoplication, cholecystectomy, location of non
palpable testes, and laparoscopic pull-through for
Hirschsprung's disease and imperforate anus. Although
its potential utility in the adult population continues to
be described for the treatment of colon, gastric, and
ovarian cancers, data are lacking concerning solid
tumor resection in the pediatric population. Despite
this, sufficient evidence that MIS can be an effective
approach to the biopsy of solid tumors for tissue
diagnosis, determination of resectability and staging,
evaluation of metastatic or recurrent disease, second-
look operations, and diagnosis of infectious
complications Solid-tumor resection is not yet
supported in most cases. The purpose of this
retrospective review was to evaluate the 5-year
experience at a single institution with. MlS in children
with malignancy.
The biopsy of an intra-abdominal mass in a child is an
important initial step in the multimodality approach to
many pediatric solid tumors. MIS allows direct
visualization of the tissue, visualizes hemostasis, and
reveals more anatomical details. Combined with the
fact that many of these children will perhaps be
undergoing multiple procedures, MIS theoretically
allows for minimal inflammation, fewer adhesions,
decreased pain, and quicker recovery, facilitating"
subsequent initiation of chemotherapy and second-look
or delayed primary surgery Most of these data are
extrapolated from adult studies and a few small series
in children, identifying the need for more data in the
pediatric population.
Pediatric malignancies are often sensitive to
chemotherapy and require only initial tissue biopsy for
diagnosis as part of a multidisciplinary approach to
their treatment. Excellent results in diagnostic accuracy
with laparoscopic biopsy techniques have been
reported for a variety of malignancies. Points of debate
still revolve around the excision of solid organ
malignancies, with the potential for tumor spill and
port-site recurrences. In addition, questions have been
raised concerning the potential alteration of the
pathologic margins and the subsequent impairment of
appropriate histological evaluation of tumor specimens
after morcellation [33].
EVALUATION OF VIRAL HEPATITIS PATIENT
WITH POTENTIALLY RESECTABLE
HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA.
Despite significant recent improvements in liver
imaging, preoperative evaluation of the potentially
resectable patient with viral hepatitis and
hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often inaccurate.
Diagnostics laparoscopy may change management for
patients with under appreciated nodular cirrhosis or
intra hepatic metastases, preventing unnecessary open
exploration. The purpose is to determine the
effectiveness of routine laparoscopy as a separate
procedure prior to resection in the evaluation of
patients with potentially resectable. (HCC)
Patient with potentially resectable Hcc were evaluated
preoperatively with routine blood test and axial
imaging. All study patients also underwent diagnostic
laparoscopy with laparoscopic ultra sonography.
Laparoscopy was performed in an inpatient hospital
setting with 23 hrs stay in most cases. Among 65
patients evaluated with hepatocellular carcinoma
between Jul, 2001 and Nov 2003, 20 patients with
potentially resectable disease were evaluated by
diagnostic laparoscopy. All patients had viral hepatitis;
16 with hepatitis B and 4 hepatitis C. All study patients
had cirrhosis, 18 classified as child’s Pugh A and 2 as
child’s Pugh B. Diagnostic laparoscopy changed the
management in 9/20 (45%) cases. Management was
changed because of sever modular cirrhosis in 4 cases,
inaccurate assessment of intrahepatic metastasis in 2
cases, inability to identify an HCC in 1case, peritoneal
carcinomatosis in 1 case, and inability to tolerate
induction to general anesthesia in 1 case.
Diagnostic laparoscopy is useful in the evaluation of
the potentially resectable patients with HCC
information obtained from laparoscopy may change the
clinical management in up to 45% of cases [34].
DUODENAL PERFORATION:
Perforation is a life threatening complication of peptic
ulcer disease. Duodenal Perforation is a common
complication of duodenal ulcer. Perforation duodenal
ulcer is mainly a disease of young men but because of
increasing smoking, use NSAID majority of patient of
perforated duodenal ulcer are H-Pylorii positive.
Perforated duodenal ulcer is a surgical emergency.
Diagnostics laparoscopy is a useful method for
diagnostic and repair duodenal perforation [23] [24].
ACUTE PERITONITIS:
The presence of peritonitis has previously been
considered to be a contraindication for the laparoscopy
approach because of the theoretical risk of malignant
hypercapania and toxic shock syndrome. The aim of
this retrospective to demonstrate that laparoscopy is
feasible, safe and efficient in cases of peritonitis. From
Jan. 1990 to Jul. 1993, 231 patients had a laparoscopy
for acute peritonitis in two centers (91) appendicular
peritonitis, 69 gastro duodenal perforated ulcer, 35
perforation of the colon, 36 miscellaneous. The
diagnostic accuracy of laparoscopy exploration was
84.8%. the clinical preoperative diagnosis was changed
by laparoscopic exploration I n29.1% of patients. An
unnecessary laparotomy was avoided in 6.5% of
patients and the site of traditional incision was
modified in 8.7%. convertion rates were 25% for
appendicular peritonitis, 16% for gastro duodenal
perforation and 83% (24 of 35 patients) for colonic
perforation. The over all mortality rate was 3.9%. no
malignant hypercapnia occurred [27] [28] [29].
SICKLE CELL DISEASE:
Diagnostics laparoscopy has clean benefit over
exploratory laparotomy inpatient with sickle disease.
Patient with acute appendicitis will certainly require
surgery that may be associated with high morbidity
and mortality as a result of pre-operative and
postoperative complication, mainly vas-occlusive crises
(voc). The D.L is believed to be associated with
minimal risks to the patient due to its numerous
advantages over conventional method. The morbidity
associated with surgery in sickle cell patient can be
further reduced by use of preoperative exchange
transfusion and adequate maintenance of hydration in
the patient with sickle cell disease [2].
ABDOMINAL TRAUMA:
Laparoscopy was first used for a trauma patient in
1956 by lamy, who observed two cases of Splenic
injury. Since then, Gazzaniga et al. noted that
laparoscopy is useful for determining the need for
laparotomy. In 1991, Berciet al. reported that he had
reduced the number of non-therapeutic laparotomy
performed for hemoperitoneum by 25% through the
use of laparoscopy 150 patients with blunt abdominal
trauma. Laparoscopic techniques are beginning used
with greater frequency for the diagnosis and
management of traumatic injuries. Although
laparoscopy is an operative intervention, it has a role
in limiting the for a full laparotomy in some patients
with gunshot injury and stab wound. The procedure
allows examination of the anterior intra-abdominal
structures in animally invasive fashion. It has a
potential advantage over standard open laparotomy in
that the incision are smaller, allowing quicker recovery
time less pain, and shorter postoperative hospital
stays. The limitation are that the entire abdominal
cavity, especially the retro peritoneum and posterior
diaphragm, can’t be adequately visualized with the
laparoscope and stubble injuries to the small and large
bowel can easily be missed. In a retrospective,
multicenter study from three institutions with expertise
in laparoscopy for trauma, the records of 510 patients
undergoing the procedure of the initial evaluation for
penetrating abdominal trauma were reviewed. Of
theses, 194 were for gunshot wounds, and the
remainders were stab wound. Laparoscopy assisted in
determining the absence of peritoneal penetration in
113 (58%) gunshot wounds. Exploration performed on
the remaining 81 gunshot wounds it peritoneal
penetration resulted in only is non-therapeutic
exploration, the most frequent sites of the injury begin
the diaphragm, liver, and spleen [16] [17] [18].
BLUNT TRAUMA:
The utility of diagnostic laparoscopy is developing field.
When performed in carefully selected hemo
dynamically stable patients, laparoscopy is safe and
technically feasible, chot et al reported reduced
negative and non therapeutic laparotomy rates in this
identified population [19].
PENETRATING TRAUMA:
Diagnostic laparoscopy for the evaluation of
penetrating trauma is more defined in thoracic
abdominal stab wounds; laparoscopy may aid in the
diagnosis of diaphragmatic and other intra abdominal
injuries, thus avoiding non therapeutic laparotomies.
Gunshot wound to the anterior abdomen with
questionable tangential trajectory similar may be
assessed. The argument is that even of there are no
clinical signs of intra abdominal injuries, the
disadvantages associated with an unnecessary
laparotomy are minor compared to the danger of
peritonitis in cases of delayed diagnosis of intestinal
perforation. An alternative to these extremes is
laparoscopy which allows the inspection of the
peritoneum for sign of perforation and further more, in
selected case, the treatment of intra-abdominal injuries
[20] [21] [22].
OVARIAN CYST:
Ovarian cysts are sac filled with fluid or a semisolid
material that develops on or with the ovary. If the
growth is larger than 10 cm, complex growing
persistent solid and irregularly shaped, on both
ovaries, causes pain or other symptoms. diagnostics
laparoscopy management ovarian cyst depends on the
patient age, pelvic examination, sonographic images,
and serve markers. A large, solid fired or irregular
adenexal mass accompanied by ascites is suspicious for
malignancy [7].
ECTOPIC PREGNANCY:
Diagnostic laparoscopy is one of the major
advancement for tubal and uterine disease. Ectopic
Pregnancy usually occurs of cases on the uterine tube.
It can be found in:-
1. The Ampulla (64%)
2. The Isthumus (25%)
3. The Infundibulum(09%)
Laparoscopic surgery is a good option for rupture
ectopic. If the patient is hemo dynamically stable
and initial Diagnostic laparoscopy indicates a
moderate blood loss, it may be possible to
control bleeding laparoscopic ally and perform
any indicated procedure [7].

CONTRAINDICATION:
1) Hemodynamic Instability
2) Mechanical or Paralytic Ileus.
3) Uncorrected Coagulopathy
4) Generalized Peritonitis.
5) Sever Cardiopulmonary Diseases.
 6) Abdominal Wall Infection
7) Multiple Previous Abdominal Procedures.
8) Late Pregnancy.

CONCLUSION:
Diagnostic laparoscopy is one of the very important
methods of investigation for patients in whom the
diagnosis or extent of the disease is unclear or the
abdominal finding are equivocal it can be performed
safely in an inpatient or outpatient setting, potentially
expediting diagnosis and treatment. Diagnostic
laparoscopy in the most commonly performed surgical
and gynecological procedure. Its greatest advantage is
that it has replaced exploratory laparotomy.

Exploratory Laparoscopy
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Exploratory laparoscopy (lap-ah-ROS-koh-pee) is surgery
to look at the organs inside your abdomen. Examples of
these organs are the stomach, small and large intestines,
liver and uterus (in women). During laparoscopy,
caregivers may look for causes of pain, abnormal
growths, bleeding, or disease in your abdomen.
Caregivers may also find and fix problems in your
abdomen. For example, caregivers may fix a hernia or
remove adhesions (scar tissue) from your organs and
tissue. They may fix blocked or damaged organs, or take
tissue samples.

CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with
this plan, you must learn about your health condition and
how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment
options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide
what care may be used to treat you. You always have the
right to refuse treatment.
RISKS:
• There are always risks with surgery. You may bleed
more than usual or get an infection. You could have
trouble breathing or get blood clots. A special gas is
used to make your abdomen bigger and easier to see
inside during surgery. You may have shoulder pain from
this gas for a few days. If you have many adhesions, too
much bleeding, or other problems, you may need open
surgery.

• There is a small chance that the tools used during your

surgery could touch nearby organs or tissues causing a
burn. Also, organs or tissues close by could accidentally
 have a hole made in them by the tools used during your
surgery. Caregivers will watch you closely for early signs
of these problems. Call your caregiver if you are worried
or have questions about your medicine or care.
GETTING READY:
The week before your surgery:
• Talk to your caregiver about over-the-counter medicine
such as aspirin. You may need to stop using certain
medicines for a time before your laparoscopy. If your
caregiver has told you to take aspirin daily, do not stop
without asking first.

• Tell your caregiver about any over-the-counter vitamins,

herbs, food supplements, or laxatives you are using.
These medicines may not work well with medicines you
may need during surgery.

• You may need to have blood tests, x-rays, and other

tests before surgery. Ask your caregiver for more
information about these and other tests that you may
need. Write down the date, time, and location of
each test.

• Take any medicine that your caregiver has given you to

take before surgery exactly as ordered.

• Arrange to have a family member or friend to drive you

home when you leave the hospital. Do not drive yourself
home.

• Your caregiver may want you to empty and clean out

your bowel or other body organs before surgery. Doing
this may stop your bowel from getting infected after
surgery. Your caregiver may ask you to do one or more
of the following things:
 ○ Eat high fiber foods for 1 to 2 days before surgery.
Good examples of high fiber foods are fruits,
vegetables, and whole-wheat cereals and breads.
Drink 6 to 8 (eight-ounce) cups of healthy liquids
each day, unless your caregiver tells you not to.

○ Take a special medicine called a cathartic the day

before surgery. A cathartic will make you have
diarrhea (loose, watery stools), but it will clean out
your bowel quickly.
The night before your surgery:
• Try to get enough restful sleep the night before your
surgery. You may be given a pill to help you sleep.

• If you have diabetes, ask your caregiver for special

instructions about what you may eat and drink before
your surgery. If you use medicine to treat diabetes, your
caregiver may have special instructions about using it
before surgery. You may need to check your blood sugar
more often before and after having surgery.

• Ask caregivers about directions for eating and drinking.

The day of your surgery:
• Write down the correct date, time, and location of your
surgery.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital.

• Ask your caregiver before taking any medicine on the

day of surgery. These medicines include insulin, diabetic
pills, blood pressure pills, and heart pills. Bring a list of
your medicines or the pill bottles with you to the
hospital.

• Do not wear contact lenses on the day of the procedure.

You may wear glasses.
 • An anesthesiologist will talk to you before your surgery.
This caregiver will give you medicine to make you sleep
during surgery.

• You or a close family member may be asked to sign a

legal piece of paper (consent form). It gives your
caregiver permission to do surgery. It also explains the
problems that may happen with your surgery, and your
choices. Be sure all your questions have been answered
before you sign this form.
TREATMENT:
What will happen:
• You will be asked to change into a hospital gown. You
may be given medicine in your IV to help you relax or
make you drowsy. You will be taken on a cart to the
operating room and then moved from the cart to a
special bed. You will get medicine called anesthesia to
prevent pain and keep you comfortable during surgery.

• Caregivers will clean your abdomen with soap and

water. This soap may make your skin yellow, but it will
be cleaned off later. Sheets will be put over you to keep
the surgery area clean. A laparoscope and other tools
will be put into 3 or 4 small incisions (cuts) made in your
abdomen. After your operation is finished, your incisions
are closed with stitches (thread) or staples. Adhesive
strips or bandages may also be put over the incisions. It
is normal to have skin bruising at the incision sites. The
bruising should fade away in about a week.
After surgery: You will be taken to a room where you
can rest until you wake up. You may be allowed to go
home. If you are staying in the hospital, you will be taken
back to your room. Do not get out of bed until your
caregiver says it is OK. A bandage is used to cover your
stitches or staples. This bandage keeps the area clean
and dry to prevent infection. A caregiver may remove the
bandage soon after surgery to check your incision.
Waiting room: This is a room where your family and
friends can wait until you are ready for visitors. If your
family leaves the hospital, ask them to leave a phone
number where they can be reached.
CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:
• You have questions or concerns about your surgery.

• You have a fever (increased body temperature).

• You cannot make it to your surgery on time.

• The problems for which you are having surgery get

worse.
Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights
reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may
not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for
commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not
intended as medical advice for individual conditions or
treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist
before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe
and effective for you.