Your Guide to Laparascopy- the Modernised & Less Painful Surgery

SURGERY!

What’s the first imagery that popped up in your head the moment you read the word above? Let us guess: painful cuts through your skin; days and weeks of you trying to heal from the pain? Well, say NO MORE!

Surgeries involving large incisions, long recovery periods and even severe pain are a thing of the past, thanks to Laparoscopy. This new-age technique is redefining surgery, enabling healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat the body with minimal effort. Be it conducting complicated diagnostic tests or treating gallbladder issues–Laparoscopy operation is the new normal in the surgery space.

Wondering what Laparoscopy exactly is? In the section below, we will discuss everything that you need to know about this modernised surgery.

Laparoscopy Meaning: What it is and How it Works?

Laparoscopy, also known as “minimally invasive surgery”, a modern technique using which doctors can perform operations with minimal incisions (cuts). In the process of Laparoscopy operation, doctors insert a laparoscope (essentially a tiny camera) through an incision. It helps them get a clear view of the internal organs to examine and guide surgeons to perform precise and targeted treatment.

But when does Laparoscopy operation help?

 Laparoscopy surgery can be performed under a wide range of scenarios–varying from simple diagnostic procedures to critical treatments,for example, cholecystectomy laparoscopy or gallbladder removal laparoscopic surgery. We will read further into the importance of laparoscopy.

Why Choose Laparoscopy Operation?

Laparoscopy offers several benefits over traditional methods, making it a preferred choice for both doctors and patients:

• Faster recovery: Laparoscopy operation–be it Hystererectomy or Cholecystectomy by Laparoscopy–give patients the relief of significantly less recovery periods. With minimal incisions, patients heal faster and can even go home within a couple of days.
• Less pain and scars: Small cuts mean less pain and–of course–reduced scarring, which, again, makes recovery after Laparoscopy surgery more comfortable.
• Less risk of infection: Operations come with a great risk of causing infection due to numerous scars and cuts on the skin. One of the benefits of Laparoscopy is that it minimises this troublesome aspect with minimal incisions and treatment. 

Types of Laparoscopic Procedures

Laparoscopic procedure is different for everyone; it depends on the individual conditions and each technique has its own share of benefits and conditions. Let’s understand some of the common Laparoscopy procedures:

Diagnostic Laparoscopy

In Diagnostic Laproscopy, a doctor can directly look at the contents of pelvis or abdomen. It is also called exploratory laparoscopy. It is a procedure where the doctor makes an incision below the belly button. Then a trocar, a hollow tube is inserted into the incision and a tiny video camera is used to diagnose the problem. So, you should prepare your mind before planning the surgery. 

Cholecystectomy by Laparoscopy (Gallbladder removal)

Cholecystectomy is one of the most common laparoscopic procedures, where the gallbladder is removed to treat issues like inflammation or gallstones. Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery offers a quick recovery and minimal discomfort, allowing patients to resume their daily activities much sooner than they would with traditional surgery.

Appendectomy by Laparoscopy

Laparoscopic appendectomy is a go-to technique for people with appendicitis. This minimally invasive technique allows for quick removal of the appendix, resulting in minimal scarring and faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

Hysterectomy and Laparoscopy

Hysterectomy, or the surgical removal of the uterus, is often performed using laparoscopy for patients with fibroids, endometriosis, or other reproductive health issues. The laparoscopic approach ensures fewer complications, less pain, and a shorter hospital stay, making it a favourable option for many women.

Laparoscopic Surgery Cost in India

Knowing that laparoscopy is less painful than traditional operations–it’s natural to wonder how much would laparoscopic surgery cost.

In India, the laparoscopic surgery cost varies broadly basis factors, including:

• Type of laparoscopy operation
• Hospital location
• Surgeon (their expertise and experience)

Here is an overview of the estimated laparoscopic surgery cost in case of some of the common procedures:

• Diagnostic Laparoscopy: INR 20,000 - 50,000
• Appendectomy by Laparoscopy: INR 40,000 - 80,000
• Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy): INR 50,000 - 1,00,000
• Hysterectomy by Laparoscopy: INR 80,000 - 1,50,000

Note: The laparoscopic surgery costs above are only estimates; it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for an exact quote based on personal circumstances.

On to Laparoscopy Preparation and Recovery

Any kind of surgery comes with a set of must-know’s and how’s that the patient has to follow. It involves diet, medication, and more, depending upon the type of procedure. We will take a look at the things that you must keep in mind before, during, and after laparoscopy surgery.

Before the Surgery

• Consultation: The doctor conducts preoperative tests, inclusive of imaging and blood tests; this is to ensure you are fit enough for the operation.
• Diet: The surgery requires you to avoid food and drinks a few hours prior to the procedure.
• Medication: The doctor must know any ongoing medications you are on, as some drugs may need to be stopped for a while.

Inform the doctor about any ongoing medications, as some drugs may need to be paused temporarily.

After the Surgery

• Pain management: While laparoscopy pains less than traditional surgery, you might still feel discomfort to an extent. Doctors usually prescribe medication to ease the healing.
• Mobility: Physical movement is encouraged in order to speed up the recovery, and–especially–prevent blood clots.
• Follow-up consultation: A follow-up consultation is usually scheduled within a week or two to monitor the healing process.

Laparoscopy Operation: Risks and Complications

Although laparoscopy is usually safe, it is crucial to keep in mind the potential complications associated with the surgery. These include:

• Bleeding: Small incisions reduce bleeding risks, but there’s always a chance, especially if complex procedures are involved.
• Infection: Surgery–however small it may be–always carries some level of risk of infection.
• Organ damage: The laparoscope or any such treatment instruments can cause accidental damage on surrounding organs; however, this is a very rare possibility.

>>Read More: What Type of Surgeries Does Health Insurance Cover?

Key takeaways

Laparoscopy is a leap in surgical practices, be it diagnostic laparoscopy or something more complex, like hysterectomy. This modern approach has gained popularity for minimal invasion, a lot less pain–and faster recovery time. As far as the laparoscopy surgery costs are concerned, the factors such as type of surgery, and medical professional, determine the final number. 

Hence, a wisely invested health insurance plan can help you cover the expenses seamlessly—with faster claim processing. This will not only bring you ease of money, but will ensure a hassle-free surgical procedure, where you can focus more on recovery than running from pillar to post, worrying about money.  

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.