Name of the Procedure:

Unlisted Laparoscopy Procedure, Stomach
(Common Names: Minimally Invasive Stomach Surgery, Laparoscopic Stomach Procedure)

Summary

An unlisted laparoscopy procedure involving the stomach is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose or treat various stomach conditions. The surgeon makes small incisions and uses a laparoscope—a thin tube with a camera—to guide the surgery.

Purpose

The procedure addresses various stomach-related conditions such as tumors, ulcers, perforations, or bleeding. The goals include diagnosing issues, removing abnormal growths, repairing damage, or stopping bleeding.

Indications

• Persistent stomach pain or discomfort
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Suspected tumors or masses in the stomach
• Ulcers not responding to medical treatment
• Complications from previous stomach surgeries

Preparation

• Fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjust or stop certain medications as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work, imaging studies, and ECG.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given general anesthesia.
2. Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
3. A laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions.
4. Additional surgical instruments are inserted through other small incisions.
5. The surgeon performs the necessary diagnostic or therapeutic steps while viewing the stomach on a monitor.
6. Tools and laparoscope are removed and incisions are closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Lead surgeon specialized in minimally invasive surgery
• Surgical assistant(s)
• Scrub nurse
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room nurse

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision sites
• Bleeding
• Injury to surrounding organs
• Blood clots
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Postoperative pain or hernia

Benefits

• Minimally invasive, leading to smaller scars and less postoperative pain
• Quicker recovery compared to open surgery
• Reduced risk of infection and complications

Recovery

• Hospital stay of 1 to 3 days typically.
• Adhere to dietary restrictions as advised.
• Gradual return to normal activity over 2 to 4 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Alternatives

• Open surgery, which involves a larger incision
  • Pros: Clear and direct access to the stomach
  • Cons: Longer recovery time and higher risk of complications
• Endoscopic procedures for certain conditions
  • Pros: Less invasive
  • Cons: Limited in scope and applicability

Patient Experience

• General anesthesia ensures the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
• Postoperative pain is usually managed with oral pain medications.
• Some discomfort or bloating may be experienced due to the gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery.