Which Surgeries Can Be Done Laparoscopically? A Complete List

For most patients, the fear of going under the knife is not about the surgery but rather the large incisions, postoperative pain, hospital stays, and the time it might take to return to your daily routine. The concerns are extremely stressful for patients, just as diagnosis itself is.

Fortunately, innovations and advancements in surgical techniques have made it possible to treat several conditions in a minimally invasive way and help patients to recover in a few weeks.

One such modern technique is laparoscopic surgery, commonly known as keyhole surgery. The procedure is used to treat a wide range of conditions involving the abdomen, pelvis, gallbladder, appendix, hernia repair, and certain gastrointestinal surgeries.
Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik is known for performing laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata after careful evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, medical reports, and diagnostic reports before recommending the treatment option.

What is Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique in which a surgeon operates through small incisions that are the size of 0.5 to 1.5 cm long, instead of making a large cut.

The surgeon then inserts a thin tube called a laparoscope, which is equipped with a camera and other instruments, through one of these openings.

The camera captures clear, high-definition images of the internal organs, which are then transferred to the monitor, thereby allowing the surgeon to see the affected area while performing the operation.

If laparoscopic surgery is operated on in the abdomen, it is inflated using carbon dioxide for a better view of the organs. However, the method is not limited to the abdomen and recommended to treat diseases of other body parts as well.

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik usually conducts laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata under anaesthesia, although the type and quantity depend on the specific condition and the overall health of the patient.

Compared with conventional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery comes with several benefits that have led to its popularity both among patients and surgeons.

The final decision to undergo laparoscopic surgery rests with the surgeon after considering if the individual is fit for the procedure.

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik generally suggests laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata for the following conditions.

1. Achalasia Cardia : Achalasia cardia is a rare disorder of the esophagus where the lower esophageal sphincter muscles of the esophagus (the valve between your food pipe and stomach) fail to relax, due to which the esophagus loses its normal function. As a result, patients find it difficult to pass solids and liquids to the stomach. Heller myotomy is the most effective procedure performed in a laparoscopic method to help relax the affected muscles and improve swallowing. It has lower morbidity and quicker recovery time.
2.  Appendicitis : Appendicitis is a condition that occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, swollen, and filled with pus, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. When left untreated, the appendix ruptures, causing a medical emergency. Laparoscopic appendectomy surgery involves making small incisions, which allow the surgeon to remove the inflamed appendix. At times, the operation is performed through an open method according to the severity of the inflammation and complications.
3. Gallbladder Conditions : Gallstones are one of the reasons behind recurring abdominal pain, jaundice, and other digestive symptoms. In cases where surgery is necessary, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is done to remove the gallbladder. Laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata is also performed for other gallbladder conditions such as inflammation and to remove tissue for biopsy.
4. Hernia : A hernia develops when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak area in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Some of the common types include inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias. Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik always prefers laparoscopic hernia repair to set the protruding tissue back into place and reduce the risk of further complications.
5. Colorectal Conditions : Conditions affecting the colon and rectum may be treated using laparoscopic surgery. These include cancers, diverticular disease, and other disorders that require removal of an affected section of the bowel. The treatment plan depends on the diagnosis, the extent of the disease, and the patient's overall health.
6. Rectal Prolapse : It occurs when the rectum slips down from its normal position and may protrude through the anus. Patients with rectal prolapse experience discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements, mucus discharge, and problems controlling bowel movements. A laparoscopic abdominal repair procedure may be performed to reposition and secure the rectum.

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik decides on laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata after proper examination and reports. A candidate is ideal for the procedure if he/she meets the following criteria.

• Has a condition that can be treated with a laparoscopic method.
• The patient is medically fit enough to tolerate general anaesthesia.
• The condition has undergone necessary diagnostic tests like imaging studies, blood tests, and physical examinations.
• The patient’s heart and lungs function properly to allow gas inflation in the abdomen.
• The patient has had no major abdominal operations before, so scar tissue is limited.
• If you have a tumour, it must be small enough to be removed safely through small incisions.
• The individual is looking for a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to work and normal life.

Is Laparoscopic Surgery Safe?

Laparoscopic surgery is considered very safe when performed by experienced hands. However, just like surgical intervention, it carries risks, including the following.

• Bleeding
• Infections
• Injury to potential organs
• Blood clots
• Allergic reaction to anaesthesia
• Post-operative discomfort such as abdominal pain or bloating.

Conclusion

The biggest advantage of the laparoscopic technique is that it enables you to heal faster and get back to normal living sooner. If you are considering laparoscopic surgery in Kolkata, the first step is to consult with a qualified laparoscopic surgeon like Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, who can conduct a personalised assessment to determine if a keyhole procedure is right for your condition.