Name of the Procedure:

Laparoscopy, surgical; with biopsy (single or multiple)

• Common Names: Laparoscopic biopsy, minimally invasive biopsy
• Technical Term: Diagnostic laparoscopy with biopsy

Summary

Laparoscopy with biopsy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small camera and instruments are inserted into the abdomen through small incisions. This allows the surgeon to view the abdominal organs and take tissue samples (biopsies) for further examination.

Purpose

This procedure addresses various medical conditions or problems involving the abdominal organs. The goals are to diagnose abnormalities, such as tumors, infections, or inflammatory diseases, by visually examining the organs and obtaining tissue samples for analysis.

Indications

• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Suspected malignancies or abdominal tumors
• Unexplained swelling or masses
• Chronic infections or inflammatory conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
• Unresolved digestive issues
• Abnormal imaging or lab results indicating potential pathology

Preparation

• Patients are typically advised to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments or temporary cessation of certain medications, particularly blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests, including blood work and imaging studies, to assess the patient’s overall health and surgical risk.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.
3. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) is inserted through one incision.
4. Additional instruments are inserted through other incisions.
5. The surgeon examines the abdominal organs visually.
6. Tissue samples are taken from areas of interest using special instruments.
7. The tools are removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and the extent of the biopsies required.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Performs the laparoscopy and biopsy
• Anesthesiologist: Manages anesthesia and monitors the patient’s vital signs
• Surgical Nurses: Assist with the procedure and patient care

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor bleeding, infection at the incision sites, temporary abdominal pain or discomfort
• Rare risks: Damage to internal organs, complications from anesthesia, blood clots, hernia at the incision site

Benefits

• Minimally invasive, leading to shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain
• Provides accurate diagnosis through visual examination and tissue analysis
• Smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection and cosmetic concerns

Recovery

• Patients may go home the same day or require a short hospital stay.
• Post-procedure instructions include rest, avoiding strenuous activities, and proper wound care.
• Full recovery typically occurs within a few days to a week.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to discuss biopsy results and further treatment, if needed.

Alternatives

• Open (traditional) biopsy: More invasive with a longer recovery period and larger incision.
• Imaging-guided needle biopsy: Less invasive but may not provide as comprehensive a view as laparoscopy.
• Non-invasive diagnostic tests: MRI, CT scans, or ultrasounds, though less definitive than a biopsy.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia and will not feel pain or discomfort. Post-procedure, mild discomfort and soreness around the incision sites are common. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers. Overall, the patient can expect a quicker recovery time compared to more invasive surgical procedures.