Laparoscopic Surgery
In a laparoscopic procedure, surgeons use small incisions (1/4 to 1/2 inch) to enter the abdomen through cannulas (narrow tube-like instruments). The laparoscope, which is connected to a tiny video camera, is inserted through the small incision, giving the surgeon a magnified view of the patient’s internal organs on a television screen. The entire operation is performed “inside” after the abdomen is expanded by inflating gas into it. There is no need for a large incision.
The advantage of the laparoscopic approach is that it usually provides:
- reduced postoperative pain
- shorter hospital stay
- a faster return to work
- improved cosmetic result
- quicker return of bowel function
- quicker resumption of regular diet
- faster return to normal activities of daily living
Instruments used during a laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. These are placed through the abdominal (belly) wall and enable the surgeon to operate through small incisions.
When very small instruments are used for surgery, the scars left after surgery are very difficult to see and cause very little pain.
Almost all surgery in the abdomen used to be and sometimes still is performed by the open or conventional technique. Open or conventional surgery involves making a large incision (6 – 15 inches) in the abdomen in order for the surgeon to place his hand in the belly and perform surgery.
Recovery after abdominal surgery has much more to with the incision than the actual surgical procedure performed. As an incision increases in length, generally a patient experiences more pain and less mobility. These two factors can lead to difficulty breathing, a longer hospital stay, and a longer time away from work.
Laparoscopic Gallbladder Incisions
Laparoscopic Colon Incisions
Open Colon Incision
