Laparoscopic procedures are less invasive procedures that achieve the same goal as traditional open operations. The goal of liver resection is to safely and effectively remove a liver mass (benign or cancerous).
The laparoscopic method is performed through smaller incisions, which provides patients with faster recovery and better appearance. Patients usually feel less pain and can return to their normal activities sooner.
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Laparoscopic (Closed) Liver Surgery: Stages and Duration
During this procedure, the patient is given general anaesthesia and put to sleep. Three to seven small incisions are then made to remove the liver mass. Depending on the number and location of the incisions and how much liver needs to be removed, this procedure can take between one and seven hours.
What are the necessary preparations before laparoscopic (closed) liver surgery?
Before the procedure, patients are encouraged to maintain a physically active lifestyle and reduce alcohol intake. They will meet with their surgeon to follow certain steps prior to surgery.
Most patients are given a mild bowel preparation to facilitate the movement of the colon during surgery. This preparation also helps prevent constipation after surgery.
How long is the recovery period after laparoscopic (closed) liver surgery?
Recovery time may vary depending on the extent of the patient's liver surgery. Generally, patients can stay in hospital for one to six nights after surgery. Depending on the type of surgery and the patient's condition, the surgeon will discuss the postoperative recovery process with each patient in detail.
As the liver is regenerated, the recovery process will depend on how much of the patient's liver needs to regrow. In the first few weeks after surgery, most patients may feel marked fatigue. Pain is usually controlled with anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and low-dose narcotic painkillers.
What Factors Affect the Results of Laparoscopic (Closed) Liver Surgery?
There are many factors that can affect the results. Patients who are physically stronger usually recover faster after surgery. Regular walking before and after surgery can speed up the healing process.
It is important for patients to limit alcohol intake before and after the operation, as well as to avoid other substances that are harmful to the liver. Your doctor will guide you in identifying supplements or medications that may burden your liver.
How Safe Is Laparoscopic (Closed) Liver Surgery?
The procedure is usually quite safe and patients usually tolerate it well. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks. There are many studies showing that results are better in hospitals where high-volume procedures are performed.
Successful Liver Tumour Removal:
The success of liver tumour removal depends on the following factors:
Location of the tumour
Number of masses
Distribution of masses
The amount of liver remaining after tumour removal
Resection of a large part of the liver is possible because the remaining liver grows to compensate for the removed part.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Liver Surgery:
Common advantages include:
Less postoperative pain
Shorter hospital stay
Faster return to normal food
Fast normalisation of the intestines
Faster return to daily activities
Better looking results
Laparoscopic (Closed) and Open Liver Surgery
Are laparoscopic (closed) and open liver procedures the best option for every patient?
We try to offer a laparoscopic liver procedure to all patients, but depending on the location of the lesion and/or the patient's previous surgeries, the laparoscopic approach may not be the best option for every patient.
Will I recover faster with a laparoscopic (closed) procedure?
Compared to an open procedure, patients usually feel less pain and can be faster and more active after a laparoscopic operation. Because of the reduced pain in a laparoscopic procedure, patients usually require less pain medication.
A patient's recovery time varies depending on the amount of liver that needs to regrow. The laparoscopic approach does not make a difference in the amount of liver regeneration required.
If my liver mass is cancerous, do you perform the procedure open or laparoscopically (closed)?
Our aim is always to keep the patient safe and to perform the best possible surgery. When deciding whether the procedure will be open or laparoscopic, our main goals remain the same.
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