Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a surgical approach that utilizes specialized techniques and instruments to perform procedures with less disruption to the body compared to traditional open surgery. It involves smaller incisions or punctures, which result in reduced trauma to the surrounding tissues and shorter recovery times.

What Are the Types of Minimally Invasive Surgery?

  • Laparoscopic surgery: This technique involves making a few small incisions in the abdomen through which a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) and other surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon performs the procedure by viewing the surgical site on a monitor.
  • Robotic surgery: Robotic-assisted surgery combines laparoscopic techniques with robotic technology. The surgeon controls robotic arms with enhanced precision, dexterity, and range of motion. The system provides a 3D view and allows for more complex procedures.
  • Endoscopic surgery: Endoscopy involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) through natural body openings or small incisions. It enables visualization and treatment of organs and structures, such as the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, joints, and respiratory system.
  • Arthroscopic surgery: Arthroscopy is a type of endoscopic surgery specifically used to diagnose and treat problems within joints. It involves inserting an arthroscope through small incisions near the joint, allowing the surgeon to visualize and repair joint injuries or conditions.
  • Thoracoscopic surgery: Also known as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), this technique involves inserting a thoracoscope into the chest through small incisions. It is used for procedures related to the lungs, pleura, and mediastinum, such as lung biopsy, lobectomy, and thymectomy.
  • Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM): TEM is a minimally invasive technique used for certain rectal surgeries. It involves inserting an endoscope through the anus to access and remove tumors or polyps in the rectum without the need for a traditional abdominal incision.
  • Transoral endoscopic surgery: This type of surgery involves accessing and treating structures within the oral cavity and throat using an endoscope. It is used for procedures like removing tumors or repairing conditions like sleep apnea or swallowing disorders.

Are There Any Side Effects From Minimally Invasive Surgery?

After surgery, you may experience some pain or discomfort at the site of incisions or the treated area. This can usually be managed with pain medications prescribed by your doctor.

Minimal bleeding and bruising are common after surgery. However, excessive bleeding may occur in rare cases and may require medical attention.

Although the risk is low, there is still a possibility of developing an infection at the site of incisions or in the treated area. Your surgeon will take precautions to minimize this risk, such as sterilizing instruments and using antibiotics if necessary.

While the incisions made in minimally invasive surgery are smaller than in open surgery, they can still result in small scars. The scars are typically less noticeable and may fade over time.

There is a slight risk of unintentional damage to nearby organs or tissues during the surgical procedure. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, but it can still occur in rare cases.

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