| What is Laparoscopic Surgery |
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The minimally invasive technique of laparoscopic surgery was successfully introduced for gynecological procedures in the early 1970's. Since 1988, when laparoscopy was approved for cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), patient demand has contributed to a rapid expansion in the number of laparoscopic procedures performed. Today, 95 percent of gallbladder removals are accomplished laparoscopically, and the approach has been adapted successfully for other surgeries of the abdomen, chest, and vascular system. Today's advanced digital technology allows magnification of the laparoscopic surgery site up to 20 times actual size, permitting surgeons to see anatomical structures in exquisite detail. New three-dimensional imaging technology allows the surgeon to “operate with two eyes” - viewing internal organs stereoscopically, rather than in two dimensions only. Intraoperative ultrasound allows “real time” scans of the surgery site as the operation proceeds, providing additional valuable information. More and more surgical procedures are likely to be performed by laparoscopy as patients realize the advantages of a minimally invasive approach, and as more physicians are trained to perform advanced laparoscopic procedures. Laparoscopy - Surgery Option for a New Era: Until recently, surgery was the most traditional of medical practices, employing techniques and instruments developed more than a century ago. But now patients have a new choice. Laparoscopy- a minimally invasive approach to surgery of the abdomen -accomplishes traditional surgical goals while delivering less pain, faster recovery, and happier patient. A Few Tiny Incisions: Sometimes known as "keyhole" or "pinhole" surgery, laparoscopy typically entails four incisions of 5 to 10 ml 'llimeters - just large enough to admit the passage of the Surgeons light, a tiny video camera, and precision-crafted surgical instruments. Without the trauma of a long incision, both pain and healing time are greatly reduced. Related benefits include less need for post-operative pain medication, plus an earlier return to physical activity and a normal diet. Less time in bed means fewer p?st-operative pulmonary and gastrointestinal complications and stronger blood circulation. Most patients can rebuild strength and return to normal life in days rather than weeks. |