
Laparoscopic surgery, which may also be referred to as endoscopic surgery, is one of the fastest-growing areas in surgical medicine. With the use of special equipment outfitted with a tiny camera, surgeons are able to operate using smaller incisions.
For our patients, smaller incisions mean less time in the hospital after surgery, a faster recovery and return to normal activities, and less scarring or even no scarring at all.
Generally, incisions in minimally invasive surgery are only one-half to three-quarters of an inch long – much shorter than the six to eight inches with “open” surgery. The camera, maneuvered through a small incision, allows the physician to view the equipment’s internal position and movements on a TV monitor.
Clear Benefits
The major advantage with
minimally invasive surgery is that the surgeon doesn’t have
to cut through as much healthy tissue and muscle. This means there
is less need for postoperative pain medication and an earlier return
to physical activity and a normal diet. And shorter time spent in
bed also means fewer postoperative pulmonary and gastrointestinal
complications and stronger blood circulation.
On the Cutting Edge
At Holy Cross Hospital, we apply minimally invasive technology
to several areas of medicine. The next time you find yourself facing
surgery, ask your physician if a minimally invasive option is right
for you.