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What is lynch syndrome? Lynch syndrome is a genetic condition that puts a person at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, including bowel cancer. If you have lynch syndrome, you will need regular monitoring with colonoscopies, as well as other tests. Some people with lynch syndrome may be advised to have preventative surgery. Lynch syndrome was previously known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). Lynch syndrome is caused by a mutation in a specific type of gene. It significantly increases a person’s risk of developing some types of cancer, such as bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) and endometrial cancer (sometimes

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma What is non-Hodgkin lymphoma? Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of your immune system, which helps protect your body against infections. The lymphatic system is made up of: lymph vessels lymph — clear fluid that contains white blood cells (called lymphocytes) which help your body fight infections lymph nodes Tumours caused by lymphoma usually grow in your lymph nodes. But lymphoma can also affect other organs of the body, such as your: spleen liver bone marrow About 5,000 people are diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in Australia every year. It’s more common in males than females, and in

What is lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is a type of chronic (ongoing) swelling that affects the soft tissues in your body. It occurs when your lymph nodes or vessels, which make up your lymphatic system, become blocked or damaged. This damage or blockage causes a build-up of fluid in your body’s soft tissues. Lymphoedema most commonly occurs in your arms or legs, but it can also be seen in the genital area, chest, head or neck. What is the lymphatic system? The lymphatic system is part of your body’s immune system. It helps to fight infections and protect your body from disease. The lymphatic system is made

What are lymph nodes? Your lymph nodes (or lymph glands) are small lumps of tissue that contain white blood cells, which fight infection. They are part of your body’s immune system. They filter your lymph fluid, which is composed of fluid and waste products created by the body’s tissues. Lymph nodes help to fight infections. The glands near the infection can swell up (lymphadenopathy). Where are my lymph nodes found? Your lymph nodes are located throughout your body, including your: neck and back (cervical lymph nodes) armpits (axillary lymph nodes) groin stomach chest Your lymph nodes drain lymph fluid from your nearby

What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria borrelia burgdorferi. It’s transmitted (spread) to humans through a tick bite. There is no evidence that Lyme disease can be spread from person-to-person. Lyme disease is found in parts of the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Asia. Lyme disease has been diagnosed in Australia in overseas travellers. Scientists have not found the bacteria that carry Lyme disease in Australian ticks. You are not likely you can catch Lyme disease in Australia. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease? Lyme disease can affect your: skin joints Complications of Lyme

What is lupus? Lupus is a chronic autoimmune illness. This means that your immune system attacks your body’s own normal cells. Lupus can affect many different parts of your body. There are several different types of lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — this can affect almost any organ or body system. It mostly affects your skin and joints, but sometimes it can affect your heart, lungs, kidneys or brain. Discoid lupus — this is a milder illness, with most people having only skin symptoms. Subacute cutaneous lupus — this is even milder and mostly causes rashes and joint pain. Drug induced

What is lung cancer? Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs grow in an uncontrolled way. The cancer may start to grow in the lungs first (primary cancer) or may spread to the lungs from a cancer somewhere else in the body (secondary cancer/metastasis). Lung cancer is the 5th most common cancer in Australia and, in general, it spreads quite quickly. This cancer is diagnosed more often in older people, and it is much more common in smokers — although non-smokers can get it too. Lung cancer is generally divided into two main types: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) makes up about 85%

What is a lung biopsy? A lung biopsy involves removing small pieces of abnormal lung tissue using a needle passed through the skin, between the ribs and into the lung. What are the benefits of a lung biopsy? Your doctor (a lung specialist) is concerned about a problem in your lung that has shown up on an x-ray or scan. A lung biopsy is a good way of finding out what the problem is and what treatment you may need. A lung biopsy. Are there any alternatives to a lung biopsy? An x-ray or scan can show that you have

What is a lumbar puncture? A lumbar puncture involves putting a needle into the lower back to reach the fluid that sits around the spinal cord. This can help to diagnose and sometimes treat problems of the brain and spinal cord. Lumbar puncture is sometimes called a ‘spinal tap’. Why is a lumbar puncture performed? A lumbar puncture is performed to sample the fluid that sits around the brain and spinal cord, called cerebrospinal fluid or CSF. It can then be sent for laboratory testing. Lumbar puncture is also sometimes used to treat certain problems, either by injecting something into

What is a slipped disc? A slipped disc is where the spongy centre of a disc bulges out and puts pressure on a nerve where it leaves your spine. Each disc is made up of a tough fibrous outer coat with a soft spongy centre. Eventually the spongy centre can bulge out and press on a nerve, or some of the spongy centre can squeeze out of the fibrous coat and press directly on a nerve. This is called a slipped disc and it can cause pain, as well as weakness and numbness in the area that the compressed nerve

What is lumbar spinal stenosis? Lumbar spinal stenosis is where the spinal canal narrows in your lower back. The spinal canal tends to narrow as we get older caused by bony overgrowth from wear and tear in the facet joints, thickening of surrounding ligaments and bulging of the discs. A narrowed spinal canal means that there is not enough space for the nerves and blood vessels. You may have difficulty walking and leg pain, often with a tingling sensation. What are the benefits of surgery? The aim is to prevent your symptoms getting worse. You may get less pain and

What is low back pain? Back pain is a very common problem, with 1 in 6 Australians reporting having back problems. About 4 out of 5 people have low back pain at some time in their lives. People experience low back pain in different ways — most feel pain, stiffness and soreness. Some people say it feels like a sharp pain; other people report dull aches or spasms. You may feel stiff or find it hard to turn or bend in certain directions. If you have sciatica, the pain can travel down one or both of your legs. Back pain can

What is LSD? LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is an illicit hallucinogenic drug. It’s a chemical extracted from a fungus. It comes as an odourless white powder. LSD is also sometimes sold as: a liquid in tablets in capsules The pure form of LSD is very strong, so it’s usually diluted with other things. It’s usually taken by dropping LSD solution onto a material such as: gelatine sheets pieces of blotting paper sugar cubes These materials release the drug when swallowed or dissolved under your tongue. LSD can also be: sniffed injected smoked applied to the skin LSD is also known

Lower limb angiogram and angioplasty (radiology) What is an angiogram and angioplasty? An angiogram is a procedure to look for any problems with your arteries using dye and x-rays. Sometimes an angioplasty is performed at the same time to widen or unblock an artery. It involves inflating a small balloon inside the artery. A stent (metal mesh tube) is usually used to hold the artery open. What are the benefits of an angiogram and angioplasty? An angiogram will give a detailed picture of your arteries. The procedure should help you to walk further and with less pain. If you have ulcers or gangrene it should

Low blood pressure (hypotension) What is blood pressure? As blood is pumped by the heart around the body, the pressure with which it pushes against the walls of blood vessels changes. When the heart squeezes blood into the arteries, the pressure goes up. When the heart is relaxed, the pressure is lower. Your blood pressure is a measurement taken of the highest reading and the lowest reading. It is given as 2 numbers — highest (systolic) over lowest (diastolic). Systolic is the pressure in the artery as the heart contracts (squeezes). This is represented by the first number. Diastolic is

Back pain What is low back pain? Back pain is a very common problem, with 1 in 6 Australians reporting having back problems. About 4 out of 5 people have low back pain at some time in their lives. People experience low back pain in different ways — most feel pain, stiffness and soreness. Some people say it feels like a sharp pain; other people report dull aches or spasms. You may feel stiff or find it hard to turn or bend in certain directions. If you have sciatica, the pain can travel down one or both of your legs. Back

Motor neurone disease (MND) What is MND? Motor neurone disease (MND) is the name for a group of diseases. These diseases affect nerves known as motor nerves, or motor neurons. In MND, these neurons degenerate and die. This causes the muscles to become weaker and weaker. This eventually leads to paralysis. The MND disease group includes: Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) Kennedy’s disease, also known as spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) MND is an uncommon disease. The average age that people are

Grief and loss What are grief and loss? Grief is the natural emotional response to the loss of someone close, such as a family member or friend. Grief can also occur after a serious illness, a divorce or other significant losses. Grief often involves intense sadness, and sometimes feelings of shock and numbness, or even denial and anger. For most people, the intensity of grief eases over time and the episodes of grief become less frequent. Grief is a process or journey that affects everyone differently. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining. This can make it hard to do

Losing interest or pleasure in activities or people that once gave you enjoyment, may be due to overworking, relationship problems or being in a temporary rut. However, a loss of interest in many things or people, that is ongoing, can sometimes be a sign you have a mental health condition. What symptoms are related to losing interest? If you have lost interest in activities that used to give you pleasure, you may also lose motivation to do things. You may feel that you don’t want to go out, which can leave you isolated. You may not be able to concentrate.

Diarrhoea What is diarrhoea? Diarrhoea is having 3 or more loose or liquid stools (poos) in one day, or more frequently than normal. If you have diarrhoea, you will experience an increase in the volume, wateriness or frequency of your bowel movements. Diarrhoea episodes are often caused by a stomach bug (gastroenteritis) and clear up on their own in a few days. However, there are many other causes of diarrhoea. Most diarrhoea is mild, but it can also be severe — even needing admission to hospital. This article covers diarrhoea in adults and children over 12 years. See diarrhoea in children for

Eye care There are simple steps you can take to care for your eyes, and to protect them with essential eye care habits every day. Here are some things you can do to care for and help protect your eyes. How can I protect my eyes at work and at home? If you work in an environment where there’s a risk of getting something in your eyes (such as dust, wood chips, metal fragments or chemicals), protect your eyes by wearing a face visor or a pair of wrap-around goggles. You may also want to ask your employer to provide protective clothing.

What does caring for someone with dementia involve? Caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging. Some carers are in paid roles, but often carers are family or loved ones of the person with dementia. This is often unpaid. It involves managing many things every day. In some cases, this may include working or studying while you care for someone with dementia. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding, so you need to look after yourself. You may feel you need to give more time and energy as the person with dementia needs more care. Caring for someone with dementia may involve

Are you a carer? Carers provide unpaid assistance and support to people who need help with their daily activities because of age, illness or disability. People who have cancer often need carers. Carers may help in many different areas of life including: personal care, such as dressing, showering and feeding medical care, such as giving medicines and monitoring symptoms emotional support, such as providing companionship and encouragement practical support, such as providing transport or helping with shopping managing finances, such as paying bills legal matters, such as planning a will or an Advance Care Directive Many people, especially those who care

After a diagnosis of long-term, or chronic illness, there may be a few practical things to think about. You may need to consider the costs of treatment and support. In turn, you may then need to think about factors such as: travel and accommodation costs childcare costs if you can work while receiving treatment If you are in hospital, or if you can’t work, this can have a financial impact. You may be worried about your family, and how they will cope with this. Worrying about practical issues can affect the way you feel. It is important to think about

What is long-sightedness? Long-sightedness (also known as hyperopia) is a common eye condition that can be hard to detect. It makes close objects appear blurry, or you might be able to focus clearly but get tired eyes or headaches. For people with significant long-sightedness, vision can be blurry for things in the distance as well. How is long-sightedness caused? The size and shape of the eye largely causes long-sightedness. When light enters the eye, it is bent by the cornea, the clear layer on the front of the eye, and the lens. This process is known as refraction. If you have

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disorder of the heart’s electrical system that can cause fast, chaotic heartbeats, called arrhythmias. It is named after the distinctive pattern seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG or heart tracing). If you have LQTS, you may have been born with a gene that puts you at risk. It might also be caused by certain medications. People with LQTS may experience fast or irregular heartbeats, fainting or seizures. If the heart is beating erratically for a long period it can cause cardiac arrest in some people, and possibly sudden death. Treatment for LQTS often involves limiting physical activity, avoiding certain medications or taking medications

What can I expect while recovering from COVID-19? Everyone will have a different experience in their recovery from COVID-19. Some people may recover in days or weeks. But in some people, recovery may take months. Although each case is unique, people recovering from more severe symptoms are likely to face a longer recovery period. Schedule regular appointments with your GP to discuss your symptoms and how best to manage them. Your GP will tell you about any medicines that might suit your needs. Symptoms recovering from COVID-19 Some common symptoms you may experience during your recovery: fatigue cough breathlessness joint or muscle

At some time in your life you may feel lonely or isolated from other people and the world around you. These feelings are normal, but there are many things you can do to overcome them. Why do I feel lonely or isolated? You can feel lonely or isolated for many reasons even when other people are around you. Some reasons you might feel lonely or isolated may come from what is happening in your life, especially if you’ve experienced major changes. These include: living alone or lacking close family around you grieving for a friend, a spouse or your partner going

What is a liver biopsy? A liver biopsy involves removing small pieces of tissue from your liver using a needle. What are the benefits of a liver biopsy? Your doctor is concerned that there may be a problem with your liver. Your doctor will tell you which of the following problems is most likely in your case. inflammation (hepatitis) cirrhosis a tumour The position of the liver. Are there any alternatives to a liver biopsy? A blood test or ultrasound scan may show that you have a problem. Specialised scans can tell your doctor how serious it is. However, a

Listeriosis is a type of food poisoning caused by eating foods contaminated with Listeria bacteria. While it’s not always dangerous, it can cause serious problems for some people. What is listeria and listeriosis? Listeria (full name Listeria monocytogenes) is the name of a type of bacteria. If you get infected by this bacteria, you can get an illness called listeriosis. Listeria bacteria are widespread in the environment. However, the illness listeriosis is not common — in Australia, only about 150 people are hospitalised because of listeriosis each year. Infection with Listeria bacteria doesn’t usually cause illness in healthy people. However, certain

What is a lipoma? Lipomas are harmless, fatty lumps. They are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, and are quite common. Lipomas can appear anywhere where you have fat cells and most commonly grow on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, arms and thighs. Sometimes lipomas grow inside the body, and you may not be aware they are there. In most cases, people only develop 1 or 2 lipomas. Occasionally, however, some people develop many lipomas. This is most likely due to rare inherited conditions, such as familial multiple lipomatosis. What are the symptoms of lipomas? Lipomas typically: feel soft and

What is lipoedema? Lipoedema is a chronic (long-term) health condition that causes an abnormal build up of adipose (fatty) tissue in the body. Lipoedema usually affects the legs, thighs and buttocks but it can also impact the arms. Lipoedema can cause significant pain and swelling. Females are more often affected by lipoedema than males. It is thought to affect around 1 in 9 females in Australia. Lipoedema usually starts during times of hormonal change like puberty, pregnancy, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and menopause. There is no conclusive research to say whether taking the oral contraceptive pill influences lipoedema. Some people have noticed the beginning of,

What is limb numbness? Numbness, sometimes called ‘paresthesia’, means you lose some or all sensation in the affected part of your body. You won’t feel a light touch, pain or temperature. Numbness is due to a problem with the nerves sending signals to the brain. You can experience numbness anywhere in your body, but it’s most commonly felt in the fingers, hands, feet, arms, or legs. You might also feel a tingling, prickling, or ‘pins and needles’. Having a numb limb can lead to other problems, such as falling or not noticing an injury, infection or sore. What causes limb numbness? There

What is lightheadedness? Lightheadedness is when you feel like fainting or about to pass out. Some people call it feeling woozy. Lightheadedness is related to dizziness. Dizziness is, when you feel unsteady or are having trouble keeping your balance. When you are feeling lightheaded, you might also have these other symptoms: nausea sweating vision changes such as blurring or seeing spots or lights feeling that your body is heavy What causes lightheadedness? Light-headedness can have a range of different causes. Some of the main causes are: dehydration (not having enough fluids in your body) a drop in blood pressure when you stand up quickly feelings

What is loss of female libido? Loss of libido (low libido or low sex drive) is a reduced desire to have sex. It can also mean a low sex drive that is persistent and won’t go away outside of the normal changes of your interest in sex. What are the symptoms of low libido? Symptoms of low sex drive or loss of libido might be: having no interest in any type of sex including masturbation rarely or never having sexual fantasies or thinking of sex being unhappy with your low desire for sexual activity or thoughts of sex It’s not

If you are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer/questioning (LGBTIQ+) community and are struggling with your mental health, you’re not alone. Research has shown that LGBTIQ+ Australians experience higher rates of mental illness and distress than those that are not sex, gender or sexuality diverse. This is often related to the stigma, discrimination and abuse faced by the LGBTIQ+ community. Sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity are deeply personal and can be complex. If you’re given a hard time about your identity, help is available. What is sex, gender, and sexuality? Sex is assigned to you at

What is vardenafil (Levitra)? Vardenafil is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED, also called impotence) in males. It is sometimes known by its generic name, vardenafil and sometimes known by its trade name, Levitra. How does vardenafil work? Vardenafil works by helping to relax the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow in more easily. If you have erectile dysfunction, this can make it easier to get an erection. Vardenafil doesn’t cause erections on its own — sexual stimulation is still needed. Vardenafil does not: cure erectile dysfunction (ED) increase your sexual desire protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) serve as contraception How do

What is leptospirosis? Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Leptospira. It occurs in both humans and animals, and mainly in tropical areas where conditions are humid, such as northern Queensland or south-east Asia. How does leptospirosis spread? It starts with an infected animal such as a rodent, cow, horse, sheep, pig, dog, possum or bandicoot. These animals can pass the infection on through their urine, or in infected tissue after they die. People come in contact with the bacterium in soil, mud or flood waters. The bacterium gets into the body: through cuts or abrasions in the skin through the

What is leprosy? Leprosy is an infection of the skin and nerves caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. It is rare in Australia, and can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. Leprosy is also known as Hansen’s disease. Leprosy mainly affects the nerves of the hands, feet and face, and also the skin. What are the types of leprosy? The type of leprosy you get depends on how your body’s immune system reacts to the bacteria. If you have little resistance to the bacteria, the bacteria may multiply and cause more widespread disease. If a person has a high level of resistance to

What is Legionnaires’ disease? Legionnaires’ disease is an uncommon, severe and sometimes life-threatening form of pneumonia, or lung inflammation, caused by legionella bacteria. There are many different species of legionella bacteria found in damp environments. The two most common in Australia are legionella pneumophila (found in water) and legionella longbeachae (found in soil). Legionella pneumophila bacteria can contaminate air conditioning cooling towers, decorative fountains, humidifiers, whirlpool spas, shower heads and other bodies of water. Legionella longbeachae can contaminate soil or potting mix. How is Legionnaires’ disease spread? You can get infected with Legionnaires’ disease by breathing in contaminated dust or water vapour. You can be exposed to the bacteria at home, at

What are leg ulcers? Leg ulcers are deep sores in the skin of the leg that often take a long time to heal. Unlike a graze, which only affects the first few layers of skin, an ulcer is deep and affects many layers of skin. A leg ulcer can be acute or chronic. An acute ulcer usually starts to heal in less than 4 weeks. It might be from an injury. A chronic ulcer takes more than 4 weeks to heal and the cause is often complex. Leg ulcers are the most common wounds in Australia. About 1 or 2

What is leg pain? Leg pain can be described as any feeling of pain or discomfort in the area between your groin and ankle. Depending on the cause, leg pain can vary from moderate to severe, and the symptoms may be continuous (non-stop) or intermittent (come and go). Leg pain can be acute, meaning it comes on quickly and then goes away. Or it can last for weeks or months. Then it is called chronic leg pain. For some people, chronic leg pain can last for years and can affect their lives. What symptoms are related to leg pain? Leg

What are learning disabilities? The terms ‘learning differences’, ‘learning difficulties’ and ‘learning disabilities’ are often used to mean the same thing. However, there are differences between these terms. Learning differences — are the different ways and speeds at which people learn. Learning difficulties — are things other than learning differences or disabilities that may affect someone’s ability to learn. These things can include not going to school and poor teaching. Learning disabilities — are usually specific learning disorders and do not respond to typical interventions. People with learning disabilities are of average or above average intelligence. They do not have an intellectual disability.

What is lead? Lead is a type of metal usually present in very small amounts in soil. High levels of lead exposure can harm you. There is no safe level of lead exposure for anyone but the risk of lead poisoning is highest for unborn babies, infants and children. You may be able to reduce your exposure by learning more about the potential sources of lead in your environment. What are sources of lead exposure? Lead can enter your body mainly through breathing in or swallowing materials contaminated with lead. Lead used to be added to paint and petrol, but

What is amblyopia? Amblyopia is a condition where one eye develops abnormally in early life. The weak, or ‘lazy’, eye often wanders inwards or outwards. In rare cases, both eyes can be affected. If left untreated, amblyopia can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. The condition usually occurs in children between birth and age 7 and is the leading cause of decreased vision in one eye in children. Amblyopia is more common in small or premature babies, or children with a family history of the condition. What are the symptoms of amblyopia? Signs that your child might

What are laxatives? Laxatives are medicines used to help prevent or treat constipation. There are many different types of laxatives. Each type works in a different way, but the goal of all types of laxatives is to make it easier to pass bowel motions (poo). For most laxatives, you will not need a doctor’s prescription. You can buy laxatives over the counter from a pharmacy. However, some types of laxatives may not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking them. What is constipation? Constipation is when you have trouble passing stools (poo). Symptoms of

What is an anal fissure? An anal fissure is a tear in the skin around your back passage. It is a common problem that causes severe pain, especially after a bowel movement. It may also cause bleeding. The condition is associated with spasm of the internal anal sphincter. This reduces the blood supply to the area and prevents healing. The treatment is aimed at breaking this cycle to allow healing to take place. What are the benefits of surgery? Surgery should help the anal fissure to heal and is usually recommended if the fissure has not healed with non-surgical treatments. Are there

What is LASIK surgery? LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) is an operation that uses a laser to correct your vision by changing the thickness of your cornea. The cornea is the transparent (clear), dome-shaped outer layer in front of the black pupil and coloured iris. What are the benefits of surgery? The aim of LASIK is to correct your vision so you do not need to wear glasses or contact lenses. The eye. Are there any alternatives to LASIK? Non-surgical alternatives glasses contact lenses Surgical alternatives natural lens replacement. The surgery is the same as cataract surgery phakic intraocular lens

What is a laryngoscopy? A laryngoscopy is a procedure to look at your voice box (larynx) using a rigid telescope. What are the benefits of a laryngoscopy? Your doctor is concerned that you may have a problem in your larynx. A laryngoscopy is a good way of finding out if there is a problem. A laryngoscopy. If your surgeon finds a problem, they can perform biopsies (removing small pieces of tissue) to help make the diagnosis. For some people, the treatment can be performed at the same time. For some people minor treatments can be performed at the same time.

What is laryngitis? Laryngitis occurs when your voice box (larynx) becomes inflamed, and your vocal cords become swollen and can’t vibrate properly. This will cause your voice to sound hoarse (rough or scratchy) or you might lose your voice. Most people recover from laryngitis without any medical treatment. What are the symptoms of laryngitis? The symptoms of laryngitis include: low, hoarse voice difficulty speaking sore, dry or tickly throat mild fever irritating cough Laryngitis is often part of another illness such as a cold, so there may also be other symptoms such as: headache runny nose swollen glands painful swallowing What causes laryngitis?

What is a laryngectomy? A laryngectomy is an operation to remove the larynx, or voice box. Why is a laryngectomy performed? A laryngectomy is most commonly performed to remove a cancer of the larynx. Either the whole larynx (total laryngectomy) or part of the larynx (partial laryngectomy) can be removed. The surgery involves creating a new airway that opens in the lower neck for breathing. This new airway is permanent following a total laryngectomy, and temporary after a partial laryngectomy. Because it seriously affects quality of life, a total laryngectomy is usually only recommended for advanced cancers that can’t be successfully

What is a laparotomy? A laparotomy is an operation to look inside your abdomen, and at the organs there. There are many reasons why this operation might be performed. Why might a laparotomy be needed? A laparotomy might be needed to look for problems in the abdomen or internal organs, or to treat a particular condition. For example, it might be done to find out why you have abdominal (tummy) pain, if you have an injury to your abdomen, to look at the spread of certain diseases such as endometriosis and cancer. Sometimes it’s done in emergency situations. A laparotomy needs a fairly

What is a laparoscopy and dye test? A laparoscopy and dye test is an operation using keyhole surgery to look at your abdominal and pelvic organs, particularly your fallopian tubes. It is used to help find out why you are having difficulty becoming pregnant. For some women minor treatments can be performed at the same time. The womb and surrounding structures. What are the benefits of surgery? The dye test will show if your fallopian tubes are blocked and may identify other conditions associated with infertility. The laparoscopy will help to find out if you have one of the following

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Laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy What is a subtotal hysterectomy? A subtotal hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb), leaving your cervix (neck of your womb) in place. Your ovaries may need to be removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? The womb and surrounding structures. There are common reasons for having a subtotal hysterectomy. Heavy or painful periods not controlled by other treatments. Fibroids, where the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. A subtotal hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. More than 18 in 20 women will no longer have periods. Are there any

What is a sterilisation? A sterilisation is a permanent method of female contraception. It involves blocking or removing both fallopian tubes (tubes that carry the egg from your ovary to your womb and sperm to the egg). So this operation will prevent you from becoming pregnant. What are the benefits of surgery? The womb and surrounding structures. You or your partner should not need to use another method of contraception. Are there any alternatives to sterilisation? There are non-permanent (reversible) methods of female contraception. hormone implants a coil or intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) oral contraceptive pill A vasectomy is a permanent method of male

What is prostate cancer? Prostate cancer is a harmful growth that starts in your prostate gland. Radical prostatectomy involves removing your prostate gland and the section of urethra that runs through it. The operation is effective only for localised prostate cancer. What are the benefits of surgery? Radical prostatectomy gives the best chance of you being free of prostate cancer and is the most effective treatment in younger men. The tissue and lymph nodes that your surgeon removes will be examined under a microscope to help decide on any further treatment. The position of the prostate gland. Are there any alternatives

What is an oophorectomy? An oophorectomy is an operation to remove one of or both your ovaries. The fallopian tube connected to your ovary is usually removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? Needing to remove an ovarian cyst is the most common reason for having an oophorectomy. A cyst can cause symptoms such as pain, bloating, pressure on your bowel or bladder, and sometimes tiredness. An oophorectomy should improve your symptoms. A laparoscopic oophorectomy. Some women have a family history of ovarian cancer so removing their ovaries will remove the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

What is a Nissen fundoplication? A Nissen fundoplication is an operation to prevent acid reflux, where acid from your stomach travels up into your oesophagus (gullet). It involves wrapping the top part of your stomach around your oesophagus. For this reason, the operation is sometimes known as a ‘wrap’. It is normal for a small amount of acid to travel into your oesophagus. If this happens too often it can cause symptoms of a burning sensation in your chest (‘heartburn’) or acid (acid reflux) in the back of your mouth. The acid can cause the lining of your oesophagus to

What is an inguinal hernia? Your abdominal cavity contains your intestines and other structures. These are protected by your abdominal wall, which is made up of four layers. Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle, resulting in the contents of your abdomen, along with the inner layer, pushing through your abdominal wall. This produces a lump called a hernia. An inguinal hernia happens at the inguinal canal. This is a narrow passage through your abdominal wall. An inguinal hernia. What are the benefits of surgery? You should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should prevent the serious complications that a hernia

What is an inguinal hernia? Your abdominal cavity contains your intestines and other structures. These are protected by your abdominal wall, which is made up of four layers. Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle, resulting in the contents of your abdomen, along with the inner layer, pushing through your abdominal wall. This produces a lump called a hernia. An inguinal hernia happens at the inguinal canal. This is a narrow passage through your abdominal wall. What are the benefits of surgery? You should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should prevent the serious complications that a hernia can cause and

What is an incisional hernia? Any operation on your abdomen needs a cut that is closed with stitches. Sometimes your wound does not heal properly and a weakness happens in the muscle layer. This results in the contents of your abdomen, along with the inner layer, pushing through your abdominal muscles. This produces a lump under your skin called a hernia. What are the benefits of surgery? You should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should prevent serious complications and allow you to return to normal activities. Are there any alternatives to surgery? You can sometimes control the hernia with supportive

What is a hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb). Your cervix (neck of your womb) is usually also removed. Your ovaries may need to be removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? There are common reasons for having a hysterectomy: The womb and surrounding structures. Heavy or painful periods not controlled by other treatments. Fibroids, where the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to a hysterectomy? Heavy periods can be treated using a variety of non-hormonal

What is achalasia? Achalasia is a condition that causes problems with swallowing. It can also cause regurgitation (bringing food back into your mouth), chest pain and weight loss. The lower oesophageal sphincter is the valve that controls how food passes into your stomach. Achalasia is where the valve does not relax properly. A Heller’s cardiomyotomy. What are the benefits of surgery? The aim is to make it easier for you to swallow. The benefits will often last for a lifetime. Are there any alternatives to surgery? The alternatives to surgery will usually give only temporary relief from your symptoms. changing

What are gallstones? Gallstones are ‘stones’ that form in your gallbladder. They are common and can run in families. The risk of developing gallstones increases as you get older and if you eat a diet rich in fat. For some people gallstones can cause severe symptoms, with repeated attacks of abdominal pain being the most common. The position of the gallbladder. What are the benefits of surgery? You should be free of pain and able to eat a normal diet. Surgery should also prevent the serious complications that gallstones can cause. Are there any alternatives to surgery? The gallstones can be left alone

What is a laminectomy? A laminectomy is an operation to treat symptoms caused by pressure on your spinal cord (spinal stenosis) or nerves. This might happen in your neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine). The surgeon increases the space in your spinal canal by removing bone and tissue pressing on your nerves. This reduces the irritation and inflammation. When may a laminectomy be needed? You may need a laminectomy if your spinal cord or the nerves of your spine are compressed. Sometimes this happens with ageing due to problems with your: bones joints discs in your spine The