Laparoscopic surgery is used to carry out a range of procedures, such as removing a damaged or diseased organ, or obtaining a tissue sample.
The most common uses are for gynaecological procedures (conditions affecting the reproductive system), the treatment of conditions affecting the digestive system, and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary system.
What are the disadvantages of keyhole surgery?
There are not many disadvantages to keyhole surgery. That said, it does require a general anaesthetic, which always carry minor risks, and can cause a sore throat after surgery.
As with all operations, there is a risk of infection or damage to organs, although the risk is lower than with open surgery.
Do you get a catheter during laparoscopic surgery?
Most patients will have a catheter inserted at the time of surgery, although this will depend on the procedure. This is then removed in the operating room, or within 6 to 12 hours after surgery.
Occasionally, the catheter must be reinserted, but this is usually removed within 24 hours.
