Description

What Is Minimally Invasive Surgery? Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions, specialized tools, and often a camera (endoscope or laparoscope) to perform procedures that once required large, open cuts. The idea is less trauma, faster recovery. 🔍 Key Features: Tiny incisions (often 0.5–1.5 cm) Less blood loss Reduced pain and scarring Faster healing and shorter hospital stays Often done on an outpatient basis 🛠️ Types of Minimally Invasive Surgery: 1. Laparoscopic Surgery Used for abdominal/pelvic procedures (e.g., gallbladder removal, appendectomy, hernia repair) Surgeon views the inside of your body on a monitor 2. Arthroscopic Surgery For joints (knee, shoulder, wrist, ankle) Small camera and tools are inserted to repair things like torn ligaments, cartilage, or labral tears 3. Endoscopic Surgery Through natural openings (e.g., mouth, nose) — like sinus surgery, GI procedures, or bronchoscopy 4. Robotic-Assisted Surgery Surgeon controls robotic arms for extreme precision Common for prostate surgery, gynecology, and some spine surgeries Example: da Vinci Surgical System 5. Percutaneous Surgery Done through the skin with a needle or catheter — used in spine procedures or vascular interventions 🧠 Common Conditions Treated with MIS: Gallbladder disease (lap cholecystectomy) Hernias Joint injuries (e.g., ACL repair, meniscus tear) Spine issues (discectomy, spinal decompression) Gynecologic problems (fibroids, endometriosis) Colon conditions (diverticulitis, cancer) Urologic conditions (prostate, kidney stones) 🏥 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery: ✅ Less pain ✅ Smaller scars ✅ Lower risk of infection ✅ Quicker return to daily activities or work ✅ Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge) ⚠️ Are There Any Risks? Like any surgery, yes — but risks are usually lower than open surgery: Bleeding Infection Reaction to anesthesia Damage to surrounding tissues (rare) May need to convert to open surgery if complications arise 🕒 Recovery Time: Varies depending on the procedure Many MIS patients return to light activities in a few days to weeks Full recovery can still take several weeks, depending on the complexity 👨‍⚕️ When Is MIS Not an Option? Extensive internal damage Severe infections Scar tissue from prior surgeries Complex cases needing better visibility or access