Minimally Invasive Surgery

There are three primary types of surgeries performed today: open surgery, minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, and the robotic da Vinci® Surgical System. Open surgery involves cutting the patient open in order to perform a “hands-on” procedure. This form of surgery is being used less and less often, but it is still necessary for certain patients and conditions.

Endoscopic procedures make use of a small, tube-like camera that can be inserted into the body and display a live feed of the patient’s internal structures on a monitor. Using this as a guide, surgeons make small cuts and insert special instruments that allow them to operate without cutting a patient open. These operations put less strain on the patient and shorten the recovery period.

The robotic surgery system further advances the improvements made by endoscopic surgery. Using a highly responsive control system, surgeons are able to make very precise movements with minimal incisions and less blood loss for the patient. Minimally invasive surgeries are done for those undergoing same-day procedures as well as people staying overnight in the hospital.

Ask your doctor about whether a minimally invasive procedure is an option for you.