Abdominal keyhole surgery

What is it?

A laparoscopic operation is performed using tiny incisions of approximately one centimetre in the abdominal wall. A laparoscope is introduced through one of these incisions: this is a long, thin probe that has a camera attached to one end. The physician and staff follow the operation on a screen. Instruments are introduced using other incisions, which are subsequently used to perform the operation.

Laparoscopy has been used for many years. With improved techniques and instruments, an even more wide variety of operations can be performed this way. A laparoscopic operation is less invasive than a 'regular' open abdominal operation. The hospital stay is usually shorter and there is less pain. As a result, home recovery is also faster. The operation itself may take longer.