Minimally Invasive Surgery in Staten Island, NY
Many common surgeries, such as an appendectomy, cholecystectomy, or hysterectomy, can now be performed using minimally invasive techniques. This frequently translates into less scarring and downtime for the patient.
What Is Laparoscopic Surgery?
The laparoscopic surgery technique utilizes thin surgical instruments and a tiny video camera called a laparoscope, which allows the surgeon to see directly inside the body of the patient. During the procedure, which is also referred to as minimally invasive surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions up to a half an inch in length, through which plastic tubes, or ports, are inserted into the body. The video camera and instruments are then inserted into the body through the ports. The camera streams a live video of the body’s interior onto a monitor, which allows the surgical team to complete the operation without making large incisions.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
With smaller incisions, the patient experiences less postoperative discomfort and quicker healing times. This often leads to a shorter hospital stay and an earlier return to normal daily activities for the patient. Additionally, the laparoscopic procedure leaves smaller external scars and may cause less internal scarring than a standard surgical procedure.
Variations on Laparoscopic Surgery
In some instances, it is possible to perform a laparoscopic surgery through a single incision through the belly button. “Single-site” laparoscopic procedures leave behind no visible scars, and the recovery time is even shorter than with the multi-site technique.
A computer-assisted robotic system gives surgeons even greater control of movement during a minimally invasive procedure. With this system, the surgeon guides robotic arms from a computer console, which broadcasts a 3D image of the body cavity, and allows the surgeon to make very precise cuts, which are difficult to achieve through a standard laparoscopic process.
Laparoscopy can be used for diagnostic purposes, as well. While this type of exploratory procedure is more invasive than ultrasound imaging, it may yield a more accurate diagnosis.
Laparoscopic Surgery at Richmond University Medical Center
Our Minimally Invasive Surgery Division is headed by Frederick Sabido, M.D., F.A.C.S. Dr. Sabido is specifically trained in laparoscopic surgical techniques and is an active member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES).
At Richmond University Medical Center, we are dedicated to providing full spectrum, high-quality medical care to the diverse populations of Staten Island and beyond. To learn more about our laparoscopic capabilities, reach out to us today.
