The number of laparoscopic procedures is steadily increasing each year, with 3.5 million performed in the United States in the past year. Laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive surgery, uses a tiny telescope and camera. To find out if you are a candidate for a laparoscopic procedure, book an appointment online or by phone with Dr. Matthew Lublin, MD, FACS, in Santa Monica and Encino, California.
request an appointmentWhat are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery requires a much smaller incision than traditional surgery. A tiny telescope with an attached camera is inserted into the incision, and an image of the internal organs is projected onto a screen, allowing Dr. Lublin to work.
In traditional, or open, surgery, a larger incision gives Dr. Lublin a direct view of the organs. There are benefits to both types of procedures depending on the situation. If a minimally invasive procedure can be performed safely, it offers several benefits:
- Smaller incision
- Quicker healing
- Shorter hospital stay
- Less scarring
- Lower risk of infection
- Faster recovery
In some cases, Dr. Lublin may recommend open surgery, or he may choose to convert to open surgery during a procedure. His concern is your safety and the method that offers you the best possible outcome.
Are there risks to having a laparoscopic procedure?
All surgery presents risks, and Dr. Lublin will discuss those risks with you prior to your procedure. People have individual treatment needs and goals, so while the less invasive laparoscopic surgery presents fewer risks, open surgery will still be the better option for some people.
Some of the risks of laparoscopic surgery include:
- Bleeding at the incision site
- Internal bleeding
- Damage to other organs
- Infection
What kinds of procedures can be performed laparoscopically?
Not all surgeries can be done using a laparoscope. Those that Dr. Lublin performs include:
- Hernia repair surgery
- Gallbladder removal
- Colon surgery
- Hiatal hernia repair
Many other surgeries can use this minimally invasive technique. If you have been diagnosed with a condition that requires surgery, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lublin to discuss whether laparoscopic surgery may be an option for you.
What should I expect following laparoscopic surgery?
Although you will likely have a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery period, laparoscopic surgery is still a surgical procedure. You will need to carefully follow Dr. Lublin’s instructions, as well as be alert to any signs of complications.
Generally speaking, getting up and moving around as soon as possible is beneficial following surgery. Walking promotes good blood circulation, which lessens the risk of blood clots.
If your surgery involves your digestive tract, you may need to work with a nutritionist as you return to a regular diet. Colon surgery, particularly, may require a relatively slow return to your normal diet.
Dr. Lublin is happy to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding laparoscopic surgery. Schedule an appointment with him to learn more about the benefits and potential risks of laparoscopic procedures.