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Bookmark & shareKeyhole stomach repair › The operation
After Susan had been anaesthetised, surgeon Richard Hardwick made five small incisions in her abdomen. He then inserted a camera and special instruments required for the surgery through these small holes. This technique is known as 'keyhole' or 'laparoscopic' surgery. He then located the hernia and repaired it using some sutures (stitches). Finally, he took a section of the upper stomach and wrapped it around the bottom of Susan's oesophagus. This created a new valve to stop the acid reflux. When the surgery had finished, Mr Hardwick checked for any bleeding before he removed the instruments. Susan's incisions were then carefully stitched up before the anaesthetist woke her up.
A pick of your best questions with answers, including some answers given specially for this website.
Tools of the trade
The surgical team used a variety of tools during the operation. Here is a selection.
Telescope
All laparoscopic procedures require a telescope to which a light source and a camera can be attached.
Camera
This lightweight camera attaches to the telescope and is used during laparoscopic surgery.
Laparoscopic scissors
Laparoscopic scissors are used by the surgeon during dissection, they are curved and are used to dissect and cut tissue.
A range of laparoscopic graspers
These are used by the surgeon to grasp abdominal tissue. They can be rotated and manipulated at the handles.
