Laparoscopic Surgery Specialist

How laparoscopic procedures done?

During a laparoscopic surgery, your doctor will make at least two small incisions in your lower abdomen and groin area, depending on the type of surgery. He or she will inflate your abdomen with either air or carbon dioxide, which allows him or her to see all of your internal organs more clearly.

A lighted scope with an attached video camera (the laparoscope) then goes into one incision, usually next to your belly button. He or she will insert surgical instruments through the other incisions to conduct the surgery.

Laparoscopies can be done to remove gallstones, kidney stones, or bladder stones. They’re also helpful for performing biopsies, removing tumors and masses, and diagnosing urinary tract issues.

What are the benefits of having a laparoscopic procedure over traditional surgeries?

Laparoscopic surgeries use small incisions, so there’s less risk of complications and infections and there’s a shorter healing period. If possible, you should opt for laparoscopic surgery because you’ll have:

• A faster recovery time
• A quicker return to work
• Less chance of bleeding or experiencing surgical complications
• Faster results and benefits
• Fewer scars

Do I need to have stitches for laparoscopic incisions?

You won’t need traditional stitches for incisions made during a laparoscopic procedure. While your urologist will likely need to make at least two small incisions — usually less than an inch in size — surgical glue is used to seal up the incision sites when the operation is complete. As the incisions heal, the glue will fall off on its own.

Will I need to go under general anesthesia?

Yes. Even though laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, your doctor still has to make several small incisions in order to insert the scope and surgical instruments. Because it’s still somewhat invasive, you’ll likely have to go under general anesthesia. Most procedures are quick, lasting less than an hour, so you won’t be under for long.

Can all urology surgeries be done with a laparoscope?

The use of laparoscopic surgery depends on the procedure to be done. Your doctor, at Urology Associates Medical Group, will go over the pros and cons of selecting a laparoscopy for your particular procedure. Because doctors — and patients — generally prefer to choose the most minimally invasive procedure available, your practitioner will do their best to use a laparoscope if possible.