Laparoscopy: the future of GI & bariatric surgeries
The concept of surgery has, earlier, been associated with lengthy hospital stay, immense pain, scarring and a lot of anxiety. However, the days of such setbacks are long gone and rightly so. Today, the portrait of surgical care has shifted to maximum ease and comfort. Let’s discuss how advancements in medical science have changed GI, minimal access and bariatric surgery.
About Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy, also known as minimal access surgery, was first introduced in the early 1970s. It is a novel technique that has diverse benefits over traditional surgery for both the surgeon and patients.
A laparoscopic surgery allows the surgeon to access the insides of your abdomen by making several (usually 3-4) small incisions. It is performed with the use of a state-of-the-art medical device called laparoscope. A laparoscope is a thin, small tube that has a light source and camera attached at one of its ends. This fibre-optic instrument enables real-time visualisation of the surgical site making it easier for the surgeon to operate.
Laparoscopic surgeries increase the magnification of surgical site upto 20 times allowing the surgeon to access and treat the abnormalities more precisely.
The application of laparoscopy is consistently rising and goes beyond gastroenterology.
Application in GI and bariatric procedures
Following surgical services are offered in a minimally invasive manner:
- LASER treatment for piles
- Laparoscopic gallstone removal
- Laparoscopic hernia repair
- Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Nissen’s Fundoplication for Reflux Disorders
- Laparoscopic Colo-Rectal Surgeries
- Diagnostic GI endoscopy
Laparoscopic advancements and benefits for patients
Technological advancements and better healthcare delivery go hand-in-hand. Laparoscopic surgery has diverse benefits for both the patients and care provider.
Higher safety and precision – Chief feature of surgical advancements is the increased safety and precision offered by laparoscopy. The video feed, optical imaging and high tech advances allow the surgeon to have a detailed and clear view of the abdomen. The virtual environment makes it convenient for the healthcare provider to operate with higher accuracy and thus more safety.
Improved patient experience – The highlighting features of minimal access surgery include less pain, reduced risk of infection, smaller incisions and smaller scars. A patient is not required to spend several days at the hospital now. Laparoscopy shortens your hospitalisation with certain procedures offering same day discharge. It additionally prevents readmissions and improves the overall quality of life and care for patients.
Fewer risks of complications – One of the biggest worries for a patient is the risk of developing surgical complications. These include infections, heavy blood loss, shock and breathing difficulties and more. Laparoscopic surgery considerably reduces these risks making the post operative recovery easier for the patients.
Better outcomes – The advanced technique of minimally invasive surgeries ensures best possible surgical outcomes. These surgeries have higher effectiveness due to their nature of increased safety and precision.
Cost-effectiveness – Minimally invasive techniques also leave a long-term positive impact on your pocket. Reduced readmissions, full and final treatments and faster recovery helps save cost in terms of finances, lost wages as well as physical and emotional strains.
This article is authored by Dr Mayank Madan, Department of GI, Minimal Access & Bariatric Surgery, CK Birla Hospital.
