Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

What is Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery?

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery or keyhole surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in Singapore that consists of small incisions and a camera-guided system to access and operate on the colon and rectum. Laparoscopic surgeries are regarded as the standard procedure for treating and diagnosing colorectal diseases. Laparoscopic colorectal surgery procedures include:

• Colectomy: a colectomy is a procedure where the colon is either partially or completely removed to treat conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and genetic diseases like familial adenomatous polyposis.
• Abdominoperineal resection: an abdominoperineal resection is a procedure where the rectum and the anus are removed to treat advanced rectal cancers.
• Anterior resection: an anterior resection is a procedure where part of the rectum is removed as part of a cancer treatment plan.
• Rectopexy: rectopexy, also known as rectal prolapse surgery, is a procedure to correct rectal prolapse by repositioning and securing the rectum.

How does Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery work in Singapore?

Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires a large incision in the abdomen, laparoscopic surgery involves making several small incisions through which specialised instruments and a camera (laparoscope) are inserted to perform the procedure. 

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, which ensures that the patient is unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. Once the patient is ready, the procedure is performed as follows:

• Several small incisions (approximately 0.5 to 1.5 cm in length) are made in the abdominal wall, typically around the navel (belly button) and lower abdomen. These incisions serve as access points for the laparoscopic instruments and camera.
• Trocars, which are specialised tubes or ports, are inserted through the incisions into the abdomen. Trocars create a pathway for the laparoscopic instruments to enter while maintaining a sealed environment to prevent air leakage.
• A laparoscope, a long, thin telescope with a light and camera at the tip, is inserted through one of the trocars. The camera provides high-definition video images of the internal organs, allowing visualisation of the surgical site.
• Additional laparoscopic instruments are inserted through the remaining trocars to perform the surgical procedure, such as dissection, cutting, suturing, and sealing blood vessels.
• Once the procedure is completed, the laparoscopic instruments and laparoscope are removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape. 
• The patients are monitored in the recovery room until they awaken from anaesthesia and their vital signs are stable. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's overall health, hospitalisation may be required for a few days to monitor for complications and ensure proper recovery.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

• Small incisions
• Quick recovery time
• Reduced risk of infection
• Reduced postoperative pain
• Minimally invasive
• Better visualisation of the treatment area

What conditions can Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery treat?

Some of the colorectal conditions that can be treated laparoscopically are:

• Colorectal cancer
• Appendicitis
• Colorectal polyps
• Colon volvulus
• Colon infection
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Rectal prolapse
• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

What results can I expect after Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery?

Although laparoscopic colorectal surgery in Singapore offers less downtime than open colorectal surgery, there are some post-procedure aftercare that patients are expected to adhere to. This will include:

• Walking slowly daily and gradually increasing the pace
• Getting ample rest
• Refraining from engaging in any strenuous activities
• Refraining from heavy lifting
• Staying hydrated

Additionally, although post surgery symptoms are lesser in laparoscopic surgeries, it is not uncommon for you to experience the following symptoms post-surgery:

• Change in bowel habit
• Nausea 
• Pain at wound sites 
• Tiredness

Frequently asked questions

Is laparoscopic colorectal surgery painful?

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery is generally associated with less postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery. However, it is normal for patients to experience some discomfort following any surgical procedure. The degree of pain experienced can vary depending on factors such as the type and extent of the surgery, the individual's pain tolerance, and the effectiveness of pain management techniques used during and after the procedure.

How long does it take to recover from laparoscopic colorectal surgery?

Most individuals can expect to return to their daily activities one week after hospital discharge or two weeks post-surgery.

What is the success rate of laparoscopic colorectal surgery?

The success rate of laparoscopic colorectal surgery is generally high, with favourable outcomes reported for most patients. However, the success rate can be influenced by various factors, such as the overall general health of the patient and the severity of the condition.