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Laparoscopy - Advice following your operation.

This operation allows the surgeon to see inside your tummy. It is often done to check for the cause of pain.

How will they do it?:

You will be given a general anaesthetic, once you are asleep a needle is put through the skin in the lower end of your tummy and some gas is inserted. Then a small cut (half an inch) is made and the telescope (laparoscope) is introduced through the cut in you tummy. The gas makes it easier to put the telescope in and allows easier inspection.

Wound and Stitches:

When the surgeon has carefully looked at everything the telescope is removed and the gas released. A stitch is used to close the cut that has been made in your skin.This stitch is usually just below the skin and will dissolve on its own, this can take up to three weeks.

Pain and Bruising:

A little bruising may appear around the wound but should gradually disappear.

The gas that has been used sometimes causes some pain after the operation, especially across the top of the shoulders, or across the back of the neck. This may last for 24-48 hours and is eased by lying down and taking painkillers. Paracetamol or similar painkillers should give adequate relief, please follow the recommended dosage.

Bathing:

Keep the wound dry for five days. Have shallow baths until the wounds have healed.

Work:

You will be able to return to work as soon as it feels comfortable to do so.

If you have had a general anaesthetic today we advise you not to drive a vehicle, operate machinery, take alcoholic drinks or make important decisions for 24 hours. You will need a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours following your operation.

Should you need to consult your GP (Family Doctor) with a problem related to your operation within 3 weeks of surgery we would appreciate you contacting the Day Surgery Unit. This will enable us to monitor your progress. Please ask to speak to the liaison nurse (Tel: 01482 675066)

Should you need any further help or advice please telephone the Day Surgery Unit, 8.00am to 8.00pm Monday to Friday (Tel: 01482 675066) At other times, only in an emergency please contact Ward 60, Hull Royal Infirmary (Tel: 01482 674252)

The Day Surgery Unit is continually striving to improve patient information. If you feel we could improve our information we would be pleased to hear from you.

Duchess of Kent Day Surgery Unit









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