This information leaflet is to help you prepare for the above procedure. The information in this leaflet should already have been explained to you by a doctor. We hope that this helps you remember what you discussed and also to answer any questions that you may have. If you still have questions or concerns after reading this leaflet, then please contact a member of your team on the contact numbers provided.
What is a laparoscopy?
A laparoscopy is carried out under a general anaesthetic. It involves looking at the organs in the pelvis or abdomen with a fine telescope called a laparoscope. Sometimes when a laparoscopy is carried out it may be necessary to take some biopsies to help in making a diagnosis. This is usually a day case procedure unless you have medical problems which require a longer stay in hospital.
The doctor will make a small cut below your tummy button and a fine needle is inserted. This is used to fill up your tummy with gas so that the womb, tubes and ovaries can be seen. Another small cut is made on your abdomen then the laparoscope is passed into the tummy with a camera attached. The laparoscope is removed at the end of the operation and the gas is removed and the cuts on your tummy are stitched. This operation usually takes about 20 – 30 minutes.
Can there be any complications or risks associated with this procedure?
Every care is taken to ensure that you are as safe as possible, and the majority of patients do not experience any problems. Laparoscopy and biopsy is a very common procedure and is usually straightforward. Before you have your procedure you will be informed about your individual risks. It is very important that you understand these risks and have all your questions answered before you sign your consent form.
The potential complications are listed below:
- General anaesthetic carries a small chance of complication. This will be discussed with your anaesthetic doctor before your surgery.
- Sometimes it is not possible to get a good view of internal organs and this may be due to previous surgery or because of weight problems. If this is not possible then we would stop the procedure and when you are awake we will discuss other options with you.
- Infection is possible and could occur in your pelvis, bladder or chest. If this does happen, it may need treatment a with antibiotics (this complication is rare)
- Bleeding (haemorrhage) – there is a small risk that bleeding can result from this procedure and in serious cases a blood transfusion and possibly another surgery could be required. (This complication is very rare.)
- Bladder damage – there is also a very small risk of damage to the bladder and/or womb including a puncture. If this did occur further surgery could be required. (This complication is very rare).
How do I prepare for the Procedure?
The examination/procedure is usually a day case procedure (meaning that you are admitted to hospital and then discharged home the same day) unless you have any medical problems which require a longer stay in hospital. It is important that you bring in all your medications (including tablets, inhalers and medical sprays) with you when coming into the hospital. If you have any questions at all, please ask your doctor or nurse. It may help to write down questions as you think of them so that you have them ready. It may also help to bring someone with you when you attend your hospital appointments.
What happens afterwards?
When the surgery is finished you will wake up and be taken to the recovery area. A nurse will stay with you until you are fully awake. When you are awake you will be taken to the day suite or ward, where you may rest until you have fully recovered. You will probably feel quite drowsy for several hours. Painkillers will be given to help with any discomfort you may feel. Let us know if the painkillers do not help the pain. You will be encouraged to mobilise as soon as possible. Prior to going home please ensure you are aware of your follow up plan, please speak to either the medical or nursing team if you do not have a follow up appointment.
Going Home
You will be able to go home once you have recovered from the anaesthetic. However you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home and have someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours following the anaesthetic. General anaesthetic can temporarily affect your co-ordination and reasoning skills, so you should not drink alcohol, operate machinery or sign legal documents for 24 hours after the procedure. Nausea, discomfort and tiredness are common side effects during the first few days following surgery. When you go home it is important that you allow yourself time to heal.
Pain Relief
You may have some mild discomfort for the first few days following your procedure. Simple pain relief, such as paracetamol should help (if you are able to take it). You can experience a wind type pain, between the shoulder blades and under the ribs, this is caused by the gas we put into your tummy. If you require any additional pain relief please speak with your doctor.
Physical Activity
We recommend that you do not do any hovering or ironing and don’t lift anything heavier than a kettle for a couple of days but then you can gradually build up to normal activity over the next few days. You can start swimming and exercising after about three weeks. You should feel fit enough to return to work within a week, unless you have a heavy job and then you may need up to two weeks off work. Do not drive for 4-5 days even if you feel fit enough if the abdominal muscles are sore it may be difficult to do an emergency stop.
Wound care
You may notice some bruising around your wound site and this should subside within a week. Any redness or swelling should be reported to your GP. Keep the wound clean with a daily bath or shower and dry well with a clean towel. The stitches in your tummy should dissolve in time, if they become tight or cause discomfort, they can be removed by your Practice nurse after 7 days.
How will I get the results of my surgery?
The results of any tissues removed should be available seven to ten days after your surgery and may be discussed in our multi-disciplinary team meeting. We will discuss with you how you wish to receive the results; this appointment is around 2-3 weeks after your surgery and can be either face to face or over the telephone.
What support is available for me?
You should have contact details of a clinical nurse specialist (key worker) from your local hospital. Even though you are having treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, your local nurse remains an important point of contact for you. Contact details will also be provided to you for the clinical nurse specialists from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Research Projects
The Northern Gynaecological Oncology Centre is actively involved in several research projects with the aim of increasing understanding of cancer and improving care of all patients. You may be approached by a member of the research team during your investigation, treatment or during follow-up to be part of a research project that you may be eligible to participate in. Whilst we encourage all patients to consider getting involved, this is not essential and your care will not be affected if you choose not to participate.