Minimally-invasive surgery, also known as laparoscopic surgery, is a surgical option that is far less invasive than an open procedure. This type of surgery doesn’t require the typical large incision to operate, so recovery time tends to be much shorter with minimal scarring or risk of infection. This surgical approach has been in use for about 25 years and is getting more popular every year. It is mainly used for gallbladder removal, appendectomies, and even tumor removal. In this article, we look at the different benefits you get to enjoy by working with a McAllen minimally invasive surgery specialist. Read more below.
Smaller Incisions
Laparoscopic surgery doesn’t require a large incision to operate, so the recovery time is much shorter. An incision is made in the abdominal wall during open surgery, and muscles are separated using sharp dissection to expose the organ of interest. Minimally-invasive surgery involves smaller incisions that allow for minor tissue damage, reduced blood loss, and a reduced risk of infection.
Rapid Recovery For Surgery Patients
Recovery from minimally-invasive surgery tends to be much faster as major incisions aren’t involved in the procedure. You can often leave the hospital within 24 hours after your procedure which speeds up your release process if you don’t have any complications. You can also resume your normal daily activities, including work, the next day. No bed rest is required after surgery, which means you’re free to go once you’ve recovered from anesthesia.
Less Scarring And Painful Recovery
With minimally-invasive surgery, there are smaller incisions or no incisions at all, which results in less scarring and a faster recovery time. Also, there’s no need for a large incision, so your pain will be minimal. On the other hand, open surgery requires an extensive incision that leaves behind a permanent scar which can cause pain and discomfort during recovery.
Reduced Risk of Excessive Blood Loss
When you’re going through laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon doesn’t need to open up your body as they can see inside via a narrow scope which reduces blood loss. During an open procedure, excessive bleeding is a common problem that requires extensive stitching, taking longer, and increasing the risk of infection. However, with minimally-invasive surgery, your surgeon can use small tools to pull out or cut away from your diseased organ, which means there are fewer incisions that cause less bleeding. The risk of excessive blood loss is reduced, and the rate of anemia due to blood loss is also lower.
Shorter Hospital Stay
A smaller incision means there’s no need to stitch muscles and tissues together, shortening hospital stay. Open surgery requires a large incision, the recovery time is longer, and recovering from anesthesia can take up to 24 hours after your procedure. This prolonged hospital stay can be costly and puts you at risk of infection and other complications. Meanwhile, minimally-invasive surgery allows you to leave the hospital within 24 hours.
In summary, laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery is a surgery that operates with smaller incisions than traditional surgeries. It allows for a shorter hospital stay and a reduced recovery time. It also allows for less scarring and reduced risk of excessive blood loss due to the small incisions.