Laparoscopic Biopsy and Staging- What Exactly is it?

A laparoscopic biopsy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to detect the presence of cancers or other diseases in the intestines or stomach. During the procedure, a surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope—a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera and light—to visualize the internal organs.

The surgeon then uses specialized instruments to remove a small tissue sample from the targeted area. This tissue is subsequently analyzed in a laboratory to determine the presence of any abnormalities, such as cancer cells or signs of disease. The laparoscopic approach typically results in shorter recovery times, less pain, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.

This is further explained by the leading laparoscopic surgeon in Delhi Dr Amita Jain in this blog.

What is it?

Diagnostic laparoscopy is a commonly performed and safe procedure that allows doctors to examine the abdominal organs and tissues in detail.

This minimally invasive technique involves the use of a laparoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light—to visualize the internal structures.

A laparoscopic biopsy can be conducted during this procedure to identify and locate cancers or other diseases within the body, aiding doctors in making an accurate diagnosis.

Additionally, laparoscopic staging is a crucial step that helps doctors evaluate the extent of the disease and explore potential treatment options tailored to the patient’s condition.

What should you do to prepare?

To prepare for a laparoscopic biopsy, patients must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and to minimize the risk of complications, especially those related to anesthesia. Here are the key steps to prepare:

1. Eating and Drinking Restrictions: Follow the fasting instructions provided by your doctor, which typically include not eating or drinking anything for a certain period before the surgery.
2. Medical History and Medication Review: Provide a complete medical history to your doctor, including all current medications and underlying health conditions. This information is critical for the anesthesiologist and surgical team.
3. Medication Adjustments: Certain medications, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), aspirin, and vitamin supplements, should be discontinued about a week before the surgery as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Consult your doctor before stopping any medications.
4. Smoking Cessation: Smoking should be avoided in the weeks leading up to the procedure as it can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
5. Dietary Adjustments: You may be instructed to follow a liquid diet for a short period before the surgery to ensure your stomach and intestines are clear.
6. Bowel Preparation: You might need to cleanse your intestines using an over-the-counter or physician-prescribed laxative to reduce the risk of infection and improve visibility during the procedure.
7. Transportation Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the medications used during the surgery will impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.

What happens during the process?

During the laparoscopic biopsy procedure, the following steps are typically followed:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Incision and Laparoscope Insertion: Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen. Through this incision, the laparoscope is inserted, providing a magnified view of the internal organs on a monitor.
3. Tissue Sampling: Using specialized instruments, the surgeon takes small tissue samples from the areas of interest. These samples are later analyzed in a laboratory to detect any abnormalities.
4. Duration and Monitoring: The length of the procedure varies depending on the patient’s condition and the complexity of the investigation. Throughout the procedure, the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored.
5. Completion: After the necessary samples are collected, the laparoscope and instruments are removed, and the incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.

What are the risks and potential complications?

While a laparoscopic biopsy is generally safe, it does carry certain risks and potential complications, including:

1. Ascites: The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, which may require further medical management.
2. Abdominal Pain: Some discomfort or pain in the abdomen is common post-procedure and can be managed with pain relief medications.
3. Injury to Surrounding Organs: There is a small risk of accidental injury to nearby organs such as the intestines, bladder, or blood vessels, which might require additional treatment or surgery.
4. Infection: Although rare, infections at the incision site or internally can occur and may require antibiotic treatment.
5. Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the procedure, especially if blood-thinning medications were not properly managed before the surgery.
6. Adverse Reactions to Anesthesia: Some patients may experience adverse reactions to the anesthesia, including nausea, vomiting, or allergic reactions.
7. Blood Clots: There is a slight risk of developing blood clots, which can be minimized by following post-operative instructions regarding mobility and medication.

By understanding these aspects and carefully following pre- and post-operative instructions, patients can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the potential risks associated with a laparoscopic biopsy.

Dr Amita Jain

Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.

Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi