Name of the Procedure:

Laparoscopy, surgical; with omentopexy (omental tacking procedure)

Summary

Laparoscopy with omentopexy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the omentum (a layer of fatty tissue in the abdomen) is tacked or attached to a specific area to aid in healing or to prevent complications. This is an additional step performed along with the primary laparoscopic procedure.

Purpose

This procedure addresses abdominal issues such as preventing adhesions, promoting healing, or stabilizing structures in the abdomen. The goals are to improve the outcomes of the primary laparoscopic surgery and prevent complications.

Indications

• Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery who are at risk of developing adhesions.
• Conditions where the omentum needs to be stabilized.
• Patients requiring enhanced healing after abdominal procedures.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to current medications as instructed by the healthcare provider.
• Pre-operative diagnostic tests such as blood work and imaging studies may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia.
2. Small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera).
3. Additional surgical instruments are inserted through other small incisions.
4. The primary laparoscopic procedure is performed.
5. The omentum is identified and tacked to a predetermined area in the abdomen using surgical clips or sutures.
6. The instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the primary surgery and additional omentopexy.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision sites
• Bleeding
• Injury to surrounding organs
• Adhesion formation despite the procedure
• Complications related to anesthesia
• Rarely, hernias at the incision sites

Benefits

• Reduced risk of adhesions.
• Improved healing and stabilization of abdominal structures.
• Enhanced overall outcomes of the primary laparoscopic surgery.
• Benefits are usually realized within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes pain management, wound care, and instructions on activity limitations.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
• A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within 1-2 weeks post-surgery to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Open abdominal surgery carries higher risk and longer recovery but may be necessary for some conditions.
• Non-surgical management may be available depending on the underlying condition but might offer less definitive results.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything. Post-procedure, patients may experience mild to moderate pain at the incision sites, manageable with prescribed pain relievers. Sensations of bloating and mild discomfort may occur, usually resolving within a few days.