What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery is not a weight loss procedure in itself. Instead, it is a method your surgeon will use when performing an abdominal or weight loss surgery.
Traditional surgery, called “open” surgery, uses one long incision in your abdomen to access the necessary organs. This has fallen out of favor among surgeons and they prefer to use the laparoscopic method when possible.
In a laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon will create several small incisions instead of one large one. These smaller incisions are typically 0.5 to 1.2 cm in width and are referred to as port sites. A tubular instrument called a “trochar” is inserted into each incision. Your surgeon will use these trochars to insert specialized instruments and a camera called a “laparoscope”. This camera will capture live images inside the abdomen and display them on high-resolution monitors for your doctor to view while performing the weight loss surgery.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery
There are several advantages to having your weight loss procedure done using laparoscopic techniques. There is a better cosmetic result (meaning the scars won’t be quite as visible), quicker recovery after surgery, less internal scarring, and a decrease in wound infections and hernias when compared to the traditional “open” approach. It also frequently results in less pain during recovery for the patient which is always welcome.
Procedures That Can Use Laparoscopic Surgery
There are many types of procedures where laparoscopic techniques may be possible. This includes most intestinal surgeries such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, cancer, rectal prolapse, and severe constipation.
Here at Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery Institute, we use the laparoscopic method when possible for the following procedures:
· Bariatric Surgery
· Hernia Repair
· Gallbladder Removal/Cholecystectomy
· Appendectomy
· Colon Surgery
· And more
Is Laparoscopic Surgery Right for You?
Before drawing any conclusions on what is best for you, it’s important to understand that not all surgeries are alike. Each one carries its own set of risks and benefits. Therefore, not every weight loss surgery is compatible with laparoscopic methods. Your surgeon will discuss the various weight loss surgery procedures and the methods of completing them with you. By becoming educated on the pros and cons of each, you’ll have a better understanding of the surgery and what to expect.
If you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to bring these to your doctor. We want you to be well-informed and understand why we make the recommendations that we do. Your health is our biggest priority.
Contact Us
Now is the time to know if surgery is right for you. Don’t wait, contact us today!
Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery Institute. Has been providing high-quality weight loss surgery for years in multiple locations.