Department of Surgery

Types, Tools and Techniques of Surgery

Minimally-invasive Surgery

Minimally-invasive surgery is a general term for procedures that reduce trauma by performing operations through small ports rather than large incisions.

With minimally-invasive surgery, multiple, small incisions are made in the abdominal wall to accommodate a small video camera and surgical instruments. The surgeon views the procedure on a separate video monitor. Most laparoscopic surgeons believe this provides a better view and access to key structures.

Benefits of Minimally-Invasive Surgery

Minimally-invasive surgery provides many benefits to patients, including:

• Less blood loss
• Smaller incisions
• Less pain following the surgery
• Less time in the hospital
• Faster recovery time

Minimally-invasive techniques can be used to do exploratory/diagnostic surgery or to remove or repair internal organs. More about minimally invasive procedures most commonly performed at Strong Memorial Hospital.

Although open surgeries are still more common, most surgeons now offer the less invasive procedure whenever possible. Speak with your surgeon to find out if you are a candidate for minimally-invasive surgery.