Preparing For Laparoscopic Surgery: What Patients Need To Know

This guide outlines how to prepare for laparoscopic surgery, including pre-operative evaluations and instructions, to ensure a successful procedure.

Laparoscopic surgery has become an immensely common procedure, a ground-breaking method transforming surgery in the world of contemporary medicine. Compared to traditional surgery, it is a minimally invasive procedure and has numerous benefits. Laparoscopic surgery results in minimal scarring, reduced recovery time, and improved patient outcomes. Owing to its benefits, it is used as an alternative to various traditional surgeries.

Although a minimally invasive procedure, it doesn’t always mean laparoscopic surgery is a minor surgery. Numerous abdominal procedures can be done as laparoscopic surgeries and they are still termed major surgeries. When you are recommended to opt for laparoscopic surgery, your laparoscopic surgeon will also instruct you to prepare for it to witness a successful outcome.

What Does Preparation for Laparoscopic Surgery Entail?

Before undergoing the surgery, proper preparation is crucial. It ensures the best possible outcome and also minimises potential risks. The preparation includes the following.

Medical Evaluation and Testing

Before the day of your surgery, you will be monitored for your overall health and fitness. A proper medical evaluation and testing will be carried out to check if you qualify as a candidate for this surgery. The evaluation includes the following tests.

• Physical Examination: The doctor will carry out a thorough physical examination of your body to assess your general health. They will check your vital signs and determine any specific concerns related to surgery.
• Medical History Review: Your medical history will be reviewed, including any pre-existing condition, previous surgeries, or any ongoing medications or allergies that you may be suffering from.
• Laboratory Tests: You will be asked to undergo some laboratory tests before the surgery. A blood test is the most common test, including a complete blood count, coagulation profile, and biochemical analysis of your blood. With the help of the tests ordered, the doctor will identify any potential abnormalities that may impact the anaesthesia or surgery.
• Imaging Studies: Your physical examination may also include imaging studies, depending on the kind of laparoscopic surgery to be performed. The doctor may suggest tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and even MRIs to offer comprehensive details about the organs or structures to be operated on.

Pre-Operative Instructions

To ensure that your laparoscopic surgery is successful and minimise the potential risks, you will be given some pre-operative instructions. We advise you to take them seriously for the best outcome.

• Fasting: You will be instructed to avoid eating or drinking anything on the day of the surgery. As per studies, an empty stomach reduces the risk of aspiration.
• Medical Management: If you are on blood thinners, herbal supplements, or any non-essential drugs, talk to your doctor about it. They will suggest you discontinue these medications a few days before the surgery. You can resume the dosage as and when directed.
• No More Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: You will also be asked to stop the consumption of cigarettes and alcohol a few days before the surgery.

Preparing for Anaesthesia

Laparoscopic surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. It means you will be unconscious during the procedure. The anaesthesiologist will evaluate your medical history to determine the most suitable anaesthesia plan for you. It is vital to follow all the fasting instructions to reduce the risk of complications during anaesthesia.

Discuss the Procedure with your Surgeon

It is suggested to have a detailed discussion about your laparoscopic surgical procedure with the surgeon, including its risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. You must ask questions that you have had in your mind to get the right answers. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, what it will do, and how to take care of yourself after the procedure. 

After the Procedure

After the laparoscopic procedure, you might have pain from some small amounts of gas left in your body. You might as well experience internal pain from the surgery or around the incisions. It is common to experience shoulder pain. The surgery will give you pain medication so that you feel more comfortable. It is important to take the follow-up appointments on time so that the surgeon can check your healing progress.
 
Other Considerations to Prepare for Laparoscopic Surgery

• Wear loose-fitting clothing as you may have abdominal tenderness and cramping.
• Wear low-heeled shoes on the day of the surgery. You may feel unsteady in the feet after anaesthesia.
• Do not wear any jewellery on the day of the procedure.
• Remove makeup or nail polish before the procedure.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
• Understand all the post-operative care instructions, including pain management, wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
• Contact your doctor if you experience fever, chills, redness, swelling, abnormal discharge, vomiting, or problems urinating after the surgery.

Takeaway

Preparing for laparoscopic surgery involves understanding the procedure in detail, its potential complications, and necessary preparations. You must follow the suggestions of your doctor. By doing so, you will contribute to a smooth surgical experience and have a quick recovery. The structured approach ensures everything goes well.