Pediatric Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that has been gaining popularity due to its effectiveness and better outcomes. Any good Pediatric Urologist must know how to perform a pediatric laparoscopy well. Since the patients are very young in age, great care is taken to ensure that they undergo the operation as well as recover from it with the least amount of difficulty. We have discussed more about the procedure below. If you’re looking for pediatric laparoscopy options in Kollam, Kerala, please contact us to schedule a consultation.
What exactly is Pediatric Laparoscopy?
For this procedure, surgeons used cannulas, which are long hollow tubes. Instead of making large cuts in the patient, they make very small cuts (generally less than ¼ of an inch). Then carbon dioxide gas is slowly and safely inserted into the cut to lift the abdomen. This extra space makes it possible for the surgeon to perform the surgery.
Why is Pediatric Laparoscopy better?
Nowadays most urologists prefer to do laparoscopy because it is minimally invasive, which means that the patient won’t have to undergo a major surgery with large cuts. Pediatric Laparoscopy also reduces the amount of time required for a patient’s recovery. Since the procedure is minimal and not an “open surgery”, the patients often recover from it faster than they do with more old-fashioned surgery options. There is also the plus point of minimal scarring to the patient as well as lesser pain.
Who needs Pediatric Laparoscopy?
Children who are suffering from any abdominal or pelvic complications can be advised to undergo a pediatric laparoscopy. Issues with the liver, intestines, stomach, appendix, colon, kidney, spleen, gallbladder, and ovaries can be treated with this procedure. There are medical conditions like appendicitis, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, undescended testes, and hydronephrosis that can be treated and corrected with laparoscopy.
What are the risks/side effects of Pediatric Laparoscopy?
While a pediatric laparoscopy is a minimal surgery, patients can develop some internal scar tissue, but the scarring is usually lesser than what you get with traditional surgeries. As with any other surgery, there is always a risk of some bleeding or infection. To reduce this risk, surgeons use HD video cameras to ensure minimal cuts and bleeding as well as to reduce the chances of catching infections.
How long do patients spend in the hospital?
Every patient who undergoes a pediatric laparoscopy will have a different experience but, generally, these surgeries do not require long hospital stays. Since these are faster-recovery surgeries, usually patients can be discharged 2 or 3 days after the procedure. Before the surgery, you will need to visit the hospital for consultation, tests, diagnosis, and explanations of how and what needs to be done for the child.
What should I discuss with the surgeon before the surgery?
For any medical consultation, it is always best to be open and honest with your doctor. The more they know about the health, routine, environment, etc. of the patient, the better the treatment they can provide. Please do let your pediatric laparoscopy surgeon know if your child has been taking any medication, if they have suffered from any previous condition, any dietary restrictions or considerations, and any other information concerning the health and well-being of the child.
These are just the basics of pediatric laparoscopy and how it may be able to help your child. In case you think your child might require this surgery, please get in touch with us using the contact information provided. We offer a wide-range of pediatric services in Kollam, Kerala, apart from pediatric laparoscopy. You are welcome to come for a consultation if you think your child needs any medical help.