Laparoscopy · Marrakech
Operating through small incisions rather than a large opening is the principle of laparoscopy. In Marrakech, Dr Oussama Rachid, an obstetrician-gynaecologist, sets the indication at consultation, explains the procedure, its benefits, risks and the alternatives, and supports you before and after. This page is informational and does not replace a consultation.
Diagnostic laparoscopyDiagnostic laparoscopy means looking inside the abdomen and pelvis with a small camera passed through an incision of about one centimetre, under general anaesthesia. It is offered when tests are not enough to explain pelvic pain or difficulty conceiving, or to confirm a condition.View the page Operative laparoscopyOperative laparoscopy allows certain gynaecological conditions (ovarian cyst, endometriosis, fibroid, adhesions, ectopic pregnancy) to be treated through small incisions, with a camera and fine instruments, under general anaesthesia. It generally means less pain, smaller scars and a quicker return than a large incision.View the page Laparoscopy involves passing a small camera through an incision of about one centimetre near the navel, after gently inflating the abdomen with gas. Other small incisions allow fine instruments to be passed. The image is shown on a screen and the surgeon operates while watching it.
Laparoscopy may be indicated for:
Compared with a large incision, laparoscopy generally causes less pain, quicker healing, smaller scars, a shorter stay and a quicker return to activities. It is not always possible, however: the approach depends on the indication, and the surgeon may need to move to a wider opening if safety requires.
A consultation lets the indication be set, the procedure explained and your written agreement obtained. An anaesthesia consultation is needed. The doctor goes through your treatments (especially blood thinners), allergies and history, orders the necessary tests and gives fasting instructions. Plan to be accompanied and to free up time for recovery.
The procedure is done under general anaesthesia. It generally lasts from thirty minutes to a few hours depending on the procedure. You are monitored until you wake up. Depending on the procedure, you go home the same day or the next. You receive written instructions and the number to call with any questions.
It is common to have discomfort in the abdomen, bloating and pain in the shoulder, due to the gas used during the procedure. It goes away in a few days. The small scars are simply cared for.
Consult without delay for fever, increasing pain, vomiting, heavy bleeding, marked swelling of the abdomen or difficulty passing urine.
Like any procedure, laparoscopy carries rare risks: infection, bleeding, injury to a neighbouring organ, the need to move to surgery through a larger incision, complications linked to anaesthesia. They are uncommon, and the doctor details them before the procedure.
No procedure is offered without an indication set at consultation, and you may ask for a second opinion at any time.
Laparoscopy allows certain causes of infertility (adhesions, endometriosis, cyst, tube damage) to be treated or explored. In forms of endometriosis, surgery is decided carefully to protect ovarian reserve as far as possible. The doctor discusses the value and timing of the procedure according to your plans for pregnancy.
The procedures and examinations linked to this care. Each is offered after a consultation, according to your situation.
Laparoscopy
Exploring and treating through small incisions.
From thirty minutes to a few hours depending on the procedure. The doctor tells you the expected duration.
Yes, laparoscopy is done under general anaesthesia.
Often after a few days to two weeks depending on the procedure. The doctor gives precise instructions.
Yes, small scars of about one centimetre, which fade with time.
In most cases yes. The doctor tells you the advised delay according to the procedure.
Informational content: it does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed.
