What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery, commonly known as minimally invasive or 'keyhole' surgery, has revolutionized gynaecological care. Instead of making a large traditional incision across the abdomen (laparotomy), the surgeon makes two to four tiny incisions, each less than a centimeter long. Carbon dioxide gas is used to gently inflate the abdomen, creating a clear workspace. A laparoscope — a slender tube equipped with a high-definition camera and light — is inserted through one incision, projecting magnified images onto a monitor. Specialized micro-surgical instruments are passed through the other incisions, allowing the surgeon to perform complex procedures with exceptional precision.
The Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery
The shift towards laparoscopic techniques provides immense benefits for the patient. Because the incisions are so small, there is significantly less tissue trauma and bleeding compared to open surgery. This translates to a dramatic reduction in post-operative pain and a reduced need for strong pain medications. Hospital stays are substantially shorter — many laparoscopic procedures are performed as day-care or require only a 24-hour stay. Recovery and return to normal activities (like work and driving) are much faster. Additionally, the tiny incisions heal with minimal scarring, offering an excellent cosmetic outcome.
Conditions Treated Laparoscopically
Dr. Aparna Kalekar utilizes advanced laparoscopy to diagnose and treat a wide range of gynaecological conditions. Diagnostic laparoscopy is the gold standard for identifying causes of unexplained pelvic pain or infertility, such as endometriosis or pelvic adhesions. Therapeutically, laparoscopy is used for Ovarian Cystectomy (removal of cysts while preserving the ovary), Myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids), management of Ectopic Pregnancy, treatment of Endometriosis, and Tubal Ligation (permanent sterilization). In many cases, even complex procedures like Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) can be performed laparoscopically (TLH).
Pre-Operative Evaluation and Preparation
Patient safety is our highest priority. Before recommending laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Kalekar conducts a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging (usually a transvaginal ultrasound or MRI). Not every condition or patient is suitable for laparoscopy (e.g., extremely large fibroids or certain medical conditions). If laparoscopy is the right choice, you will undergo a standard pre-anesthesia checkup (PAC) including blood tests and an ECG. We provide comprehensive counseling so you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Following a laparoscopic procedure, you will wake up in the recovery room and can typically start having clear fluids a few hours later. Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications and reduce gas pain (a common temporary side effect as the carbon dioxide is absorbed). You will receive clear instructions on incision care (keeping the small dressings dry) and pain management. Most women can return to non-strenuous work within a week to ten days. Dr. Kalekar schedules a follow-up appointment, usually within a week, to check your incisions, review the surgical findings or biopsy reports, and guide your return to full activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about minimally invasive gynaecology surgery.
- What is it? Surgery performed through tiny incisions using a camera (laparoscope) and fine instruments.
- Why choose it over open surgery? Less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stay, and much faster recovery.
- What conditions are treated? Fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancies, and diagnostic procedures for infertility.
- How long is the recovery? Hospital discharge often in 24 hours; return to light work in about a week.
- Is it safe? Yes, highly safe and effective when performed by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon.


