Posted: April 30th, 2022

Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Better Option for Many Patients

Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Better Option for Many Patients

Gastrointestinal surgery is a broad term that encompasses various procedures to treat diseases and disorders of the digestive system, such as colorectal cancer, obesity, ulcers, hernias, and reflux. Traditionally, these surgeries required large incisions that resulted in more pain, longer hospital stays, higher risk of complications, and slower recovery. However, with the advancement of technology and surgical techniques, many gastrointestinal surgeries can now be performed using a minimally invasive approach that offers significant benefits for patients.

What is minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

Minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery is a type of surgery that uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to access and operate on the organs of the digestive tract. One of the most common methods of minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery is laparoscopy, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera and light (called a laparoscope) through a small incision in the abdomen. The laparoscope allows the surgeon to see the surgical field on a monitor and guide other instruments through other small incisions to perform the procedure. Other methods of minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery include endoscopy, which uses a flexible tube with a camera and light (called an endoscope) to examine and treat the inside of the digestive tract through natural openings such as the mouth or anus, and robotic surgery, which uses a computer-controlled system to assist the surgeon in performing precise movements with enhanced vision and dexterity.

What are the advantages of minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

Minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery has many advantages over traditional open surgery, such as:

– **Less pain**. Smaller incisions mean less trauma to the tissues and nerves, which reduces postoperative pain and discomfort.
– **Faster recovery**. Patients who undergo minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery typically have shorter hospital stays, resume normal activities sooner, and return to work earlier than those who have open surgery.
– **Lower risk of complications**. Smaller incisions mean less blood loss, lower chance of infection, less scarring, and less formation of adhesions (abnormal bands of tissue that can cause bowel obstruction or chronic pain).
– **Better outcomes**. Minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery can achieve similar or even better results than open surgery in terms of curing or controlling the disease, improving quality of life, and reducing recurrence rates.

What are the conditions that can be treated with minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

Minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery can be used to treat most conditions that affect the digestive system, such as:

– **Colorectal cancer**. Minimally invasive colorectal surgery can remove tumors from the colon or rectum with less damage to the surrounding tissues and organs, preserving bowel function and reducing the need for a colostomy (an artificial opening for waste elimination).
– **Obesity**. Minimally invasive bariatric surgery can help patients lose weight by restricting the size of the stomach or altering the absorption of nutrients from the intestines. This can improve or resolve obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint pain.
– **Ulcers**. Minimally invasive ulcer surgery can repair or remove damaged portions of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) that are affected by ulcers (sores) caused by infection or excessive acid production.
– **Hernias**. Minimally invasive hernia surgery can repair defects or weaknesses in the abdominal wall that allow organs or tissues to protrude through them, causing pain and discomfort.
– **Reflux**. Minimally invasive anti-reflux surgery can strengthen or reconstruct the valve between the esophagus and stomach that prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and inflammation.

Who is a candidate for minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

Most patients who need gastrointestinal surgery are candidates for a minimally invasive approach, unless they have certain contraindications such as previous extensive abdominal surgeries, severe adhesions, large tumors, bleeding disorders, or pregnancy. However, not all surgeons are trained or experienced in performing minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery, so it is important to find a qualified and certified surgeon who can offer this option. Additionally, some hospitals may not have the necessary equipment or facilities to support minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery, so it is advisable to check with your insurance company and hospital before scheduling your procedure.

How to prepare for minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

Before undergoing minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery, you will need to undergo some tests and evaluations to confirm your diagnosis, assess your overall health status, and plan your treatment. You may also need to make some lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, losing weight if you are obese, controlling your blood sugar if you have diabetes, or taking medications to prevent blood clots if you have a history of them. You will also need to follow some instructions regarding your diet, medications, and bowel preparation before your surgery. Your surgeon will explain the details of your procedure, the risks and benefits, the expected recovery, and the follow-up care. You should ask any questions or concerns you have and sign a consent form before proceeding with the surgery.

What to expect after minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery?

After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored for any complications. You may feel some pain, nausea, or bloating, which can be managed with medications. You will be encouraged to get up and walk as soon as possible to prevent blood clots and promote healing. You will also be given fluids and nutrition through an intravenous line or a tube until you are able to eat and drink normally. You will be discharged from the hospital once you are stable and comfortable, usually within one to three days. You will need to follow some instructions regarding your wound care, pain management, diet, activity, and medications at home. You will also need to schedule regular follow-up visits with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and progress. You should report any signs of infection, bleeding, fever, or worsening pain to your doctor immediately.

How to find a minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgeon?

If you are looking for a minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgeon, you can start by asking your primary care doctor or gastroenterologist for a referral. You can also search online for surgeons who are board-certified in general surgery or colorectal surgery and have specialized training and experience in minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery. You can check their credentials, reviews, ratings, and outcomes on websites such as Healthgrades , Vitals , or WebMD . You can also contact your insurance company or hospital to find out if they cover or offer this type of surgery. You should consult with more than one surgeon before making your final decision and choose the one who meets your needs and preferences.

Works Cited

– Yale Medicine. “Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery.” https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/minimally-invasive-gastrointestinal-surgery
– Medscape. “Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery.” https://www.medscape.com/resource/mis
– iCliniq. “What Is Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery?” https://www.icliniq.com/articles/gastro-health/minimally-invasive-gastrointestinal-surgery

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