What should parents and patients expect?
Several small incisions, each 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length, are used instead of one larger incision. These little incisions are usually much less uncomfortable, so the period necessary for healing is shorter and we usually don't need to restrict the child's activity. Each incision is injected with local anesthesia which is often all the pain medicine needed. Tylenol is used to supplement post-operative pain control. Sometimes abdominal cramping and shoulder pain occurs for up to 6-12 hours after laparoscopy, due to "trapped air." This quickly resolves as the child's activity increases. Infrequently, video-assisted procedures are converted to standard "open" procedures if unexpected findings are made. (Your surgeon can explain to you what might make this necessary in your child's particular case.) All necessary standard surgical instruments and staff are available at every Minimal Access procedure.