Single Port Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Pre-Operative preparation:
As for general anaesthesia. In addition it is usual to check some blood tests including checking your blood group. In patients with any suggestion of jaundice further investigations to determine if gall stones are within the common bile duct may be required
Procedure:
A single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves a small incision within the umbilicus through this a specially developed laparoscopic port is inserted which allows inflation of the abdominal cavity and the insertion of modified instruments and a camera. Mobilisation of the gall bladder and division of vessels is thereafter the same as with a standard laparoscopic approach.
If there is any question that any gallstones are in the bile duct it is usual to perform an operative cholangiogram at the time of surgery. This involves injecting dye into the bile duct and taking x-rays.
Anaesthesia:
General
Post Operative Care:
Patients can start eating after recovery from anaesthesia. As with many intra-abdominal laparoscopic procedures shoulder tip pain may be a problem over the initial post-operative period. This is due to the gas used to inflate the abdominal cavity. Patients are mobile within the first 24 hours and can go home after an overnight stay. There will be some discomfort around the umbilicus but it is likely to be less than with other techniques. The wound will be closed with dissolving sutures so that there is no suture removal required. An initial redness in the scar can be expected to resolve in 2-3 months and thereafter it is difficult to see any evidence of the surgery.
OPC Codes:
Not currently available
