BENEFITS AND RISKS OF LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY

1. BENEFITS AND RISKS OF LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY Nobody wants to undergo surgery, but many times unfortunately and unexpectedly our health requires medical intervention in the form of surgery. Laparoscopic Surgery is a modern technique for treating patients who require abdominal surgery. Although surgeries are troublesome, medical advancement has reduced a lot of risks associated with a patient’s life, symptoms, and pain. Over the last few decades, this surgery has replaced traditional methods of operations and has made it easy for patients. Laparoscopic surgery ensures faster recovery than open surgery and is also cosmetically better, with smaller scars. Under this kind of surgery, the abdominal cavity is filled with carbon dioxide to provide a clear view of the organs and proper examination of the abdominal and pelvic cavities. Then, a tube that has a tiny camera called a Laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted in the body through small cuts to see the inside of the cavities and determine the issue. Thereafter, the surgeon operates. The tiny camera keeps displaying live images of the procedure being undertaken, on the connected monitor. Laparoscopic surgeries are most commonly performed for removal of the Gall Bladder (stones in the gallbladder), repair of Epigastric or Inguinal Hernias, removal of Appendix, or Bariatric (weight loss) surgery. Complicated conditions like abdominal cancer can also be safely treated through Laparoscopic surgery. Benefits:-

2. 1. Smaller Cuts: A traditional surgery involves cuts that range from 4 - 10 inches whereas in Laparoscopic surgery the cuts are just 5mm - 10mm. 2. Less blood loss: Since the incisions are small, the blood loss is limited making these surgeries preferable by the doctors. 3. Less pain. Since the incisions are small, there is far less pain than traditional surgery, making it preferable for both the doctors and the patients. 4. Reduced risk of Infection: Since the incisions are small, there is a reduced risk of contamination of other internal organs of the body. 5. Quicker recovery: The hospitalization lasts just a day or two, and the patient can be sent home the same day. The person returns to his normal functioning swiftly, which is a wonderful thing. Risks:- 1. Anaesthetic complications: Every surgery carries the potential for anesthetic complications. 2. Surgical complications: Every surgery carries the potential for surgical complications. However, with adequate precaution, the possibilities of such complications come down drastically. Remember:- Always keep your surgeon updated about your progress. Do not miss appointments. Take all medicines on time. Follow all instructions diligently, for speedy recovery. In case of any unusual signs/symptoms like excessive pain or fever etc., do not panic and contact your doctor immediately. According to Dr. Pradeep Goyal, Consultant Laparoscopic Surgeon at Shri Balmukund Apex Hospital, Laparoscopic surgery is a boon for society as the patient returns to his normal lifestyle in no time, making it easier for him/her as well as the relatives/attendants at home.