General Surgery
Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery for gallbladder disease and hernias, and gastroscopy (upper endoscopy), at The Avenue Hospital and Calvary Holmesglen Private Hospital.
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Gallstones and Gallbladder Surgery
Gallstones can cause attacks of upper abdominal pain (biliary colic), an inflamed or infected gallbladder, jaundice or pancreatitis. If you need surgery, the gallbladder is removed by keyhole surgery (laparoscopic cholecystectomy), usually as a day case or with an overnight stay. You can live normally without a gallbladder.
More about Gallbladder Surgery
Hernias
Dr Lourensz repairs groin (inguinal), belly button (umbilical), incisional and other abdominal wall hernias, using either keyhole (laparoscopic) or open surgery. Not every hernia needs fixing straight away. Sometimes keeping an eye on it is reasonable, and he will talk you through your options.
Gastroscopy
Dr Lourensz performs gastroscopies to investigate reflux, swallowing problems, indigestion, upper abdominal pain and anaemia. He is recognised by the GESA, RACS and RACP Conjoint Committee (CCRTGE) to perform gastroscopy, and GPs can refer directly.
Having Keyhole (Laparoscopic) Surgery
Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery is done through small cuts using a camera, which usually means less pain and a quicker recovery than open surgery. Many people go home the same day or the next, depending on the operation. You will receive written instructions on getting ready, recovering, and when you can return to work and normal activity.
When to Get Help Urgently
Seek urgent medical attention if your hernia becomes painful, firm or cannot be pushed back in. Abdominal pain accompanied by fever or yellowing of the skin (jaundice) also requires urgent assessment. If you feel seriously unwell, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department.
Reviewed by Dr Kaleb Lourensz