Laparoscopic Appendectomy is a surgical process for removing an inflamed appendix or Appendicitis. Not treating appendicitis can lead to the burst or rupture of the appendix and may cause a fatal or life-threatening infection. This appendix surgery is performed by doctors specializing in laparoscopic surgery.
Laparoscopic Appendectomy: The Preparation
Before the surgery, a healthcare expert will ask you several questions about your past health, the symptoms you’re experiencing, the last thing you ate and so on.
If you require emergency surgery due to severe pain or a ruptured appendix, and if you have had a meal before that, the anesthesiologist will adjust the anesthesia so that you don’t vomit during the surgery.
How is the Laparoscopic Appendectomy Performed?
This particular appendix surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and here are the ways the surgery is performed:
- Step 1: The surgeon makes a small hole to insert the Laparoscope tube. More holes will be made, so other tools can be inserted during the procedure.
- Step 2: Carbon Dioxide gas is utilized for swelling up the patient’s abdomen so that the appendix and organs are visible.
- Step 3: The surgeon will insert the Laparoscope with a small camera and another tool attached to it. The surgeon will use the TV monitor to locate the appendix.
- Step 4: The appendix is cut off and removed through one of the holes.
- Step 5: After the surgery, the surgeons remove the tools and the Laparoscope. The carbon dioxide will be released through the holes, and a small tube will be placed to drain out the fluids.
What Happens After the Laparoscopic Appendectomy?
Once the surgery is done, you will be shifted to the recovery room, where the healthcare expert will observe your vital signs, such as breathing and heart rate. When the breathing, pulse, and blood pressure are stable, and you are alert and awake, you will be shifted to your hospital room.
The healthcare expert will provide you with pain medication given intravenously during your hospital stay. After your discharge, you will be prescribed oral painkillers in case you experience pain.
You might also have a plastic tube that goes right through the nose and into the stomach. It’s used to get rid of the stomach air and fluids you swallow. Once your bowels start to work properly, the tube will be removed. You cannot drink or eat until the tube gets removed.
When you’re at home, you need to keep the cut area dry and clean. The physician will instruct you on how you must bathe. Any surgical staples or stitches will be removed during the follow-up visit. If adhesive strips are utilized, you need to keep them dry. At times, they fall off within several days.
The abdominal muscles and the incision will ache, especially when you stand for a long time. You should take the pain medicines that your healthcare provider suggests. Don’t go for medications like “Aspirin” as it can increase the chances of bleeding. Take the medicines prescribed by your doctor.
Ending Note
Laparoscopic Appendectomy is an invasive procedure that removes the inflamed appendix effectively. It’s a much better option than Open Appendectomy. When you have decided to opt for this particular surgery, learn more about it, how much time it will take and how the surgery will be performed. Speak with the healthcare provider to prepare for the surgery.
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