What Procedures does this information apply to?
- Laparoscopic Appendicectomy
- Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
- Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
Overview
After you initial laparoscopic operation, you will be able to eat and drink once fully awake from the anaesthetic. You will require regular pain relief in the first 48 hours including; regular Panadol and Endone as required.
The day after your procedure you will be reviewed by Mr Choi and discuss the results of the surgery. You will be examined and the drain will be removed if required. Patients are encouraged to mobilise from day 1 of their postoperative course.
Discharge from Hospital
Medications will be organised and dispensed prior to your discharge, as well as a post operative outpatient appointment in Mr Choi's private rooms, usually 2 weeks after your procedure.
Dressings
Dressings will be changed to waterproof dressings prior to your discharge. The dressings should be kept in tact for at least 7 days post operatively, after this, you can remove them gently yourself.
You can take showers and wash with the dressings on during this period of time. There is usually no sutures to be removed because the surgical wounds are closed with absorbable sutures.
Time Off work/school
Most people will be away from work or school for 1 week after their operation.
Driving
You should not drive for the first week after your operation, especially if taking opioid pain relief, such as Endone.
Exercise
Light walking and light exercise can be resumed once you feel comfortable. No heavy lifting (greater than 5 kilograms). Rigorous exercise, such as weight training, yoga, sit ups should not be performed during the first 6 weeks post surgery. If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to ask Mr Choi.
Increasing pain from your surgery after discharge from hospital
If you have any increasing significant pain after your discharge from hospital, vomiting or high fever you should seek immediate medical advice, either from contacting Mr Choi through his rooms or directly. Alternatively, you could see your general practitioner or attend the Emergency Department at Epworth Hospital. If you have any specific concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Mr Choi's rooms during business hours on phone: 03 9429 1002 or contact Mr Choi directly through Epworth Hospital on phone: 03 9426 6666.