5 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery

No one wants to learn they need surgery. Fortunately, with minimally invasive surgical techniques, many procedures are now easier and less intrusive than ever.

At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses his specialized skills in complex general surgical oncology to perform a variety of minimally invasive procedures. In addition, through his work on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute, he stays at the forefront of the field, including the most up-to-date knowledge and techniques for treating cancer.

Minimally invasive surgery

When a doctor says “surgery,” it's natural to envision large and painful incisions and long recovery times. Minimally invasive surgery (also known as laparoscopic or keyhole surgery) has changed how many procedures are performed.

While the specifics depend to an extent on the type of surgery, most procedures have certain things in common. Typically, several small incisions are made, and specialized video equipment and tools are used to perform the operation. 

A small instrument with a camera enters through one incision to provide real-time video to a monitor. Tiny tools are inserted through another incision. The close-up view on the monitor allows for procedures that are more accurate and precise than what is available with traditional surgery.

Types of minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery is used to perform many procedures, including appendectomies, gallbladder surgery, repairing a hernia, and more. It can also be used for cancer surgeries.

Benefits

There are numerous benefits to minimally invasive surgery, including:

1. Incisions are smaller, meaning less pain and scarring. Your body also experiences less trauma since usually there is no need to cut through muscle.

2. Less blood is lost thanks to the smaller incisions.

3. There are fewer complications, including infection, which makes the procedure safer than traditional surgery.

4. A less invasive procedure typically translates to a shorter hospital stay. In some cases, surgery may even be performed on an outpatient basis.

5. Healing occurs more rapidly, meaning a quicker recovery.

Best candidates

While minimally invasive surgery is the best choice for many individuals when their medical problems allow for this approach, some people particularly benefit from it.

For example, for people with weight challenges, traditional surgery involves an extended incision on a large amount of subcutaneous tissue. That can result in an infection or other complications. A minimally invasive procedure can reduce this risk. 

People who regularly take medication for chronic pain can also benefit from the decreased amount of discomfort — and the decreased need for pain medication — with minimally invasive surgery. 

Finally, many elderly individuals are helped by the faster recovery time. That means less time spent in bed and a reduced chance of developing blood clots.

If you need surgery, Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688 to learn more about minimally invasive surgical options.