Minimally invasive general surgery
Minimally invasive general surgery represents a paradigm shift in the field of general surgery, offering a less traumatic and often more advantageous approach compared to traditional open surgery. Instead of making large incisions, surgeons employ various techniques and specialized instruments to perform procedures through small incisions or even natural body openings.
Key features
Small incisions (keyhole surgery): This is the defining characteristic of minimally invasive surgery. Instead of large incisions that cut through muscles and tissues, surgeons make several small incisions (typically less than an inch long) to access the target area.
Specialized instrumentation: Thin, specialized instruments and a camera (endoscope or laparoscope) are inserted through the small incisions.
Enhanced visualization: The camera transmits images to a monitor, providing the surgeon with a magnified and clear view of the surgical site, enabling precise maneuvering of instruments. In some cases, robotic systems offer an even more precise 3D view and enhanced control.
Reduced tissue trauma: By minimizing cuts through muscles and other tissues, minimally invasive surgery reduces post-operative pain and speeds up the healing process.
Types of minimally invasive surgery
Laparoscopy (Keyhole Surgery): Uses a laparoscope inserted through small abdominal incisions to operate on abdominal or pelvic organs.
Endoscopy: Uses a flexible endoscope through natural openings (like the mouth, vagina, urethra, nasal opening, or rectum) to examine and potentially operate on internal organs.
Other techniques: Endovascular surgery (for blood vessels), arthroscopic surgery (for joints), and thoracoscopic surgery (for chest conditions) are also included in the spectrum of minimally invasive procedures.
Minimally invasive techniques are applied in various general surgery procedures, including:
Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
Appendectomy
Hernia repair
Colon and rectal surgery
Bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery)
Certain cancer surgeries
Benefits over traditional open surgery
Less pain and discomfort: Smaller incisions result in reduced pain and a lesser need for pain medication post-surgery.
Faster recovery time: Patients can often return to their normal activities sooner, with some procedures even being performed on an outpatient basis.
Shorter hospital stays: Minimally invasive procedures often allow for shorter hospital stays, contributing to reduced healthcare costs.
Less blood loss: Precision tools and magnified visuals lead to minimal blood loss during the procedure.
Lower risk of complications: Smaller incisions mean a reduced risk of infections and other post-operative complications.
Improved cosmetic results: Smaller incisions result in smaller and less noticeable scars.
It is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the benefits, risks, and suitability of minimally invasive general surgery for your specific medical condition.
Book your consultation with our minimal invasive surgeon to determine your perferred treatment plan.
