What to Do and Not Do Before a Laparoscopic Surgery

Any surgery, big or small, requires your full attention and dedication. One of the most important parts of a successful surgery is the preparation that goes in even before the surgery. In addition to what the doctors and nurses do, a patient needs to follow some rules for a few days. If you are going in for a laparoscopic surgery in the next few weeks or months, here is a list of what to do and not do before your surgery.

What is Laparoscopic Surgery?

A laparoscopic surgery is a non-invasive surgery that does not involve any cutting or suturing. It is done through small incisions measuring about 0.5–1.5 cm. A thin instrument called a laparoscope, with a tiny camera at its tip, is inserted through this incision to perform the surgery.

The camera provides a clearer, closer view of the surgical site, enabling greater precision. The lack of a large cut or sutures results in less pain and a faster recovery. The number of incisions can vary from 1 to 3, depending on the issue and size of the surgical area.

A laparoscopic surgery is mostly used for the abdomen or pelvic area. Inflating the area with carbon dioxide gives the surgeon the required space to perform the surgery with the tool. With higher precision, damage to surrounding organs or areas is minimal.

How to Prepare for Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is simple and does not require elaborate preparation. Like any medical procedure, this type of surgery also requires some effort on the patient’s part, even before they are admitted to the hospital.

Do’s and Don’ts

Here is a list of do’s and don’ts for a laparoscopic surgery preparation –

Consult with your surgeon about adjusting your medications, particularly blood thinners, if prescribed. Blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery, causing complications, and may need to be temporarily stopped or modified.
Fast for at least 6-12 hours before your surgery—your surgeon will provide specific timing. This means no food or drink during this period. Fasting is essential for your safety, as anaesthesia on a full stomach can cause serious complications.
Shower with antibacterial soap before your surgery to reduce infection risk. Avoid using any creams, lotions, or perfumes before you go to the hospital for surgery.
Wear loose-fitting clothing to the hospital. Remove all your jewellery, makeup, nail polish, and piercings.
Arrange for someone to drive you back home, as driving after the surgery, no matter how small it is, is not advisable.
Ensure you undergo all pre-op tests and procedures, as they are instrumental to your safety and the surgery's outcome.
Stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before surgery, or longer if your doctor recommends it.
If needed, consult your doctor about taking laxatives to clear your bowels before arriving at the hospital.
Set up your home to support your recovery. Stock up on food items and essentials, have someone to help you around the house or do the chores, and keep all items on the same floor if you live in a multi-storeyed house (to avoid unnecessary stair climbing). Always ask for help when needed.
Ensure you take all the necessary documents for the surgery, including past and current reports, insurance papers, ID, etc.
Avoid shaving the surgical site as it can cause cuts or irritation. The nurses will handle any necessary hair removal or shaving as part of pre-operative preparation.
Do not wear tight clothing, as post-surgery tenderness can feel very uncomfortable.
Do not take any extra medications, herbal supplements, or home-made remedies, a day or two before surgery, without your doctor’s approval. Medications can interfere with each other, leading to complications or nullifying their effects.
Avoid stressing too much over the surgery, the recovery, etc. Stress can impair your recovery.
Practice deep breathing, medication, or other relaxing techniques to help you calm down before the surgery or to reduce anxiety.

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Risks in a Laparoscopic Surgery

Though the surgery uses very small incisions and a thin instrument for precision, issues can arise. Some common risks associated with such surgeries are –

Accidental injury to nearby tissues or organs during instrument insertion or removal.
Injury to the bowel, bladder, or blood vessels, potentially causing serious long-term complications.
There is a risk of infection at the incision site or even internally.
A hernia may form in the incision site.
Reduced mobility after surgery may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in some individuals.
Anaesthesia can trigger respiratory issues or allergic reactions.
Scar tissue may develop at the incision or surgical site, potentially causing pain or bowel obstruction.

Conclusion

Following the doctor’s instructions before surgery is crucial for the best outcome. Being proactive and preparing thoroughly for your laparoscopic surgery can reduce the risk of complications. The pre op preparation for laparoscopy can set the tone for your surgery and recovery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is laparoscopic surgery, and why is preparation important?

Laparoscopic surgery is a keyhole procedure that uses a thin instrument called a laparoscope, with a lighted camera at its end, for better visualisation and precision during the procedure. It is mostly used for abdominal and pelvic area surgeries. Preparing ahead helps avoid complications and aids in faster recovery.

2. What should I do before undergoing laparoscopic surgery?

Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 6-12 hours before surgery to avoid complications with the anaesthesia. Leave all jewelry, piercings, nail polish, and accessories at home before coming to the hospital. Ensure you have someone to drive you back home after the surgery, and you don't come alone.

3. Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid before laparoscopic surgery?

Yes, you should avoid all foods and drinks for 6-12 hours before surgery. This helps keep the digestive system and bowels empty and avoids complications when anaesthesia is administered.

4. Do I need to stop any medications before laparoscopic surgery?

You may have to stop certain medications and alter your blood thinners if you take any. Let your doctor or surgeon know what type of medications you are on and what your recent health issues were. This enables them to guide you properly and to choose medications or procedures with the least risk.