| The term "minimally invasive surgery"
is used to describe abdominal surgery performed without making a
large incision through the skin and muscle to open the abdomen.
Instead, a scope is inserted through a trochar inserted into the
abdomen through a 1/2 inch incision. The abdomen is insufflated
with CO2 gas to distend it like a tent, allowing visualization of
the abdominal organs.
Long hand-held instruments are inserted through smaller trochars
and used to perform the surgery, while the surgeon views the inside
of the abdomen on a TV screen. Specialized tools such as scissors,
graspers, ultrasonic dissectors and endoscopic staplers facilitate
the surgeon's ability to perform complex intraabdominal surgery
using advanced laparoscopic techniques. At the bottom of this page
are photos taken through the laparoscope of an appendectomy.
We believe that laparoscopic surgery has revolutionized many aspects
of general surgery. We are very experienced in laparoscopic removal
of the gallbladder. Additionally, we perform most of our appendectomies
with the laparoscopic technique. This allows a more thorough exploration
of the abdomen and a shorter recovery, with most people returning
to work or school in less than one week.
In addition, we have training and experience in advanced laparoscopic
techniques such as inguinal hernia repair, ventral hernia repair,
colon resection, small bowel resection, partial gastrectomy, splenectomy,
and anti-reflux surgery. We have performed numerous advanced laparoscopic
procedures at Highland Park Hospital, and are offering this option
to all patients who are candidates.
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