Minimally Invasive Surgeries

What is minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions with specialized surgical instruments that fit through the narrow incisions.

In most cases, Dr. Schumacher makes incisions that are a half-inch or shorter. He then inserts a hollow tube (trocar) into each incision, creating portals for inserting surgical tools.

The key instrument is a narrow endoscope equipped with a light and video camera. The scope sends magnified images from inside your body, showing the tissues and surgical site on a monitor.

Dr. Schumacher views the images while manipulating other surgical tools from outside your body.

Is laparoscopy a minimally invasive surgery?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in your abdominal and pelvic cavities. In this case, the endoscope used is a laparoscope.

Dr. Schumacher uses laparoscopy to diagnose unexplained symptoms. After examining the organs and tissues and identifying the underlying condition, he can immediately perform surgery to treat the problem.

Which minimally invasive surgery might I receive?

Dr. Schumacher does a wide range of laparoscopic surgeries. Some that he frequently performs are:

• Anti-reflux surgery
• Appendectomy
• Cholecystectomy
• Colectomy
• Splenectomy
• Adrenalectomy
• Intestinal resection
• Liver biopsy
• Hernia repair
• Gastric bypass
• Gastric sleeve
• Gastric band
• Duodenal switch
• Revisional bariatric surgery
• Gastric neurostimulator insertion

Dr. Schumacher uses laparoscopy whenever possible. However, it isn’t the best choice for everyone, as some health circumstances prevent minimally invasive surgery.

Sometimes Dr. Schumacher decides to switch to open surgery during a procedure that was planned to be minimally invasive. This isn’t a complication; it’s a sound surgical judgment based on your health and safety. For example, he could discover a problem with scar tissue or see an organ after inserting the laparoscope.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

A half-inch incision causes far less tissue damage than a 6-10-inch open incision. As a result, minimally invasive surgery has advantages like:

• Minimal bleeding
• Less pain after surgery
• Lower risk of infections
• Faster recovery
• Quicker return to normal activities
• Minimal scarring

Some minimally invasive procedures are done outpatient, meaning you get to go home the same day. But if you need to be in the hospital, your stay is shorter than after open surgery.

Call Ohio Bariatrics and Laparoscopy or book online today if you have questions about minimally invasive surgery or need to schedule an appointment.