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Minimally Invasive Or Laparoscopic Surgery: Revolutionising Gastrointestinal Treat

In recent decades, gastrointestinal (GI) surgeries have been transformed by laparoscopic (or minimally invasive) surgery. As an advanced surgical technique, it is used to treat numerous gastrointestinal disorders via smaller incisions. Unlike traditional open surgery, besides less pain, it ensures short stays in the hospital and faster recoveries. A minimally invasive approach is best for most patients requiring GI surgery. Along with bariatric weight-loss surgery, it is good for treating cancer and benign colorectal disease.  

Laparoscopic surgery is defined by its technique, wherein surgeons only make small incisions (usually 0.5 to 1.5 cm).[1] As the patient remains under general anaesthesia, several minor incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope – a thin, long tube with a high-definition video camera and high-intensity light at the front – and specialised instruments are inserted via the minor incisions. Sharp images are transmitted by the camera to a monitor, offering an enlarged view of the surgical site. Superior lighting and better visualisation of organs ensure surgeons can conduct safer, more precise surgeries, with minimum disruption to surrounding tissues.

Conditions Treated and Benefits

Laparoscopic surgeries are used widely for various gastrointestinal conditions, such as gallbladder ailments (like gallstones), appendicitis, hernias and disorders of the liver, stomach, intestines and pancreas. Extremely beneficial in treating colorectal cancer, it offers outcomes akin to conventional open surgery, besides the extra advantage of less postoperative pain and a quicker return to normalcy.

A crucial benefit is the reduction in postoperative pain and discomfort. Since smaller incisions cause less trauma, there is limited pain and minimal need for pain medication. As a result, patient comfort is enhanced while the risks linked to pain management are reduced, including opioid dependence. A day after the surgery, many patients don’t require medications for pain.

The other big benefit is the brief recovery period, thanks to laparoscopic surgery’s minimally invasive nature. Conversely, open surgeries need a hospital stay of anywhere between five and 10 days. The outcomes are also much better. Generally, patients soon resume a normal diet as their bowel functions return much faster. Compared to open surgery, patients begin daily activities sooner, which includes their regular work routine.

Laparoscopic surgeries also provide better cosmetic outcomes since smaller incisions mean barely noticeable scars. This is crucial for figure-conscious patients as it has a positive impact on their body image and overall satisfaction levels with the surgical results. Also, it greatly curbs the risks of wound complications, including hernias, infections and scar tissue formation, inside or outside the body.

The Limitations

Nevertheless, there are limitations and challenges in laparoscopic surgery. To begin with, advanced surgical equipment is required as well as surgeons who have highly specialised training. Also, this surgery may not suit all patients, particularly people who have had extensive abdominal surgeries earlier or faced complex health conditions. Therefore, surgeons will decide each case on its merits, evaluating the specific conditions and needs of individual patients. However, unlike traditional open procedures, laparoscopic surgery offers the best results without any compromise in the general effectiveness of the surgical treatment.

Robotic Surgery – the Future

Today, robotic surgery represents a more advanced, minimally invasive technique wherein the surgical site’s high-definition, magnified, 3D view helps surgeons operate with greater precision, enhanced flexibility and more control. Robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform complex, delicate operations that were earlier unthinkable with traditional means. Accordingly, it is now viewed as the most advanced surgical method and the future of surgery.