Health & Fitness
What does 'laparoscopic' and 'minimally invasive' surgery really mean?
In the world of surgery, these two phrases are bantered around constantly. But most people who do not work in the healthcare field are unclear about what they mean.
By A. Adeyeri, MD, Sterling Surgicare
In the world of surgery, these two phrases are bantered around at least once an hour. But most people who do not work in the healthcare field are unclear about what they mean. Today, due to the remarkable improvements in medical technology and understanding of the human body, many (if not most) surgeries can be successfully performed without a need for cutting a sizeable incision (called "open" or "general surgery") in the body.
From knee repair to back surgery to cancer surgery, the problem can be surgically "fixed" by insert just a few tiny 2-inch incisions near the treatment site. Laparoscopic tools are then inserted into these holes and surgery is performed.
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As you can imagine, there are a long list of benefits to the patient -- quicker recovery time, due to the less invasive nature of laparoscopic surgery, less scarring, blood loss and even pain medication requirements. Essentially, after minimally invasive surgery, you will be back on your feet before you know it.
Just a few decades ago, facing surgery meant weeks or months of recovery. Today, in many cases, you'll be amazed how quickly you are back in the game.
