Patients will be admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery. Surgery is done under general anesthesia, and you will meet your anesthesiologist prior to surgery. Every attempt will be made to accomplish the surgery using laparoscopic (keyhole) technology.
Carbon dioxide gas is introduced into the abdomen in order to expand the abdominal wall and create a working space. Five or six tiny incisions then allow placement of our various surgical instruments.
Just after surgery, you may have additional I.V. lines and a foley catheter in your bladder. Pain medicine will be available through your IV. Taking deep breaths and coughing is vitally important to prevent pneumonia, and the nurses will help you with this.
Most patients will be discharged a day or two after surgery. You will be given written discharge instructions.
