About Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. Instead of a large abdominal incision, many procedures can now be performed through several small incisions. This type of surgery has many advantages including a faster and easier recovery and shorter hospital stay.

What is Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery uses multiple thin tubes or trocars placed in three to five small incisions, usually less than 0.5 cm each. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas and a thin telescope is placed through one of the trocars. The telescope transfers the images from inside the abdomen to a monitor in the operating room. Special instruments are placed through the trocars to perform the operation. 

Colorectal Conditions that can be Treated Laparoscopically

Many colorectal conditions that once required traditional surgery can now be treated laparscopically such as diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, appendicitis and rectal prolapse. 

Prior to Surgery

The primary care doctor and surgeon will evaluate the patient prior to the surgery. Diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, EKG, x-rays and blood work will be performed. Colorectal surgery requires cleaning of the bowel with a liquid diet and laxatives or an enema. Certain medications may have to be stopped prior to surgery. 

During the Procedure

An IV is placed in the patient's arm for delivery of medications and fluids during surgery. The colorectal surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Once the patient is asleep, catheters are placed into the bladder and stomach. When the procedure is finished, the breathing tube is removed and the patient is taken to the recovery room. 

After the Surgery

The patient will remain in the post-anesthesia care unit for one to two hours, before being moved to a regular hospital room. Nurses will monitor the patient's vital signs, incisions, NG tube and catheter. Pain medications will be administered as needed.