Laparoscopy is a type of surgery done using very small incisions. This type of surgery is possible because of the laparoscope. This is a long, slender tool with a camera and a light. It lets a surgeon see inside your stomach. To do the surgery, the surgeon puts special instruments into the stomach through small incisions. Pelvic laparoscopy is often used to diagnose and treat the causes of pelvic problems, such as pain and infertility. Laparoscopy often involves:
A short hospital stay (you can most likely go home the same day)
A quick recovery
Minimal anesthesia
Small external scars
Mild to moderate postoperative pain
To prepare for surgery:
Tell your surgeon about any medicines you take. Include herbs, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines. You may need to stop taking certain medicines, such as aspirin, for 7 to 10 days before surgery.
Follow any directions for not eating or drinking before surgery.
Arrange for a ride home after surgery.
You will most likely be given general anesthesia to make you sleep during the procedure. A catheter may be inserted to drain urine from the bladder.
The surgeon makes one or more small (quarter- or half-inch) incisions near the navel or the pubic hairline or on either side of the lower belly. The laparoscope is inserted through an incision. It sends images to a video screen, allowing the surgeon a close-up view of the organs. The surgeon uses gas to inflate the belly, for room to see and work. Depending on what is found, surgery to treat the problem may be done at this time.
You’ll be taken to a post-op area to wake up and recover from anesthesia.
You may feel some shoulder pain. This is due to irritation from the gas used to inflate the belly.
You may have some discharge from the vagina. If so, ask the nurse for a pad.
You will be asked to walk around to improve breathing and blood flow.
If you had a catheter, it will most likely be removed before you go home.
You can go home as soon as you recover from anesthesia and your condition is stable.
Recovery time depends on which procedure was done. Your recovery from pelvic laparoscopy may take up to 6 weeks. If it was a simple procedure such as a tubal ligation, then 2 weeks is reasonable. For laparoscopic hysterectomies, the recovery may be closer to 6 weeks. While you recover, be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. During this time:
Take pain medicine as prescribed.
Start eating solid food when you feel ready. To prevent constipation, eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of fluids.
Don’t lift anything heavy until your healthcare provider says it’s safe.
Take it easy for a few days. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work, exercise, and sex.
Arrange for a follow-up visit with your healthcare provider to discuss the results of the procedure.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider
Chills
Redness, swelling, or drainage at the incision site
Heavy, bright-red vaginal bleeding or smelly discharge
Trouble urinating
Severe belly pain or bloating
Leg pain, redness, or swelling
Persistent nausea or vomiting
No signs of daily improvement
Fainting
Trouble breathing