Thanks to countless healthcare and technological advancements, surgical procedures today are not as risky as before. Now, doctors can operate and treat patients without performing a traditional open surgical technique.
Over the years, various minimally invasive surgical procedures made it possible for doctors to diagnose and treat patients using tiny incisions near the affected area. This is a massive breakthrough in the medical field since small incisions also mean faster recovery time and fewer complications.
Below is an in-depth discussion on everything you need to know about your upcoming minimally invasive surgery一what is it, how is it performed, and frequently asked questions. We aim to provide you with accurate knowledge regarding your procedure so you’ll feel prepared and comfortable during your surgery.
A minimally invasive surgery refers to a medical procedure that can be used to diagnose, treat, and manage various disorders. It is performed using tiny incisions rather than the traditional large cuts.
In this type of surgery, a doctor only needs to create one or more button-sized incisions called ports, which will serve as the entry point of specialized instruments. A small, narrow tube with a video camera at the end will be inserted into the port, together with other types of small surgical instruments.
Your surgeon will then perform the required task, such as diagnosing the source of your symptoms, removing loose fragments, or repairing damaged structures. All of these are done with the help of a video camera inside, which will broadcast the inside of the body on a large screen monitor outside.
Additionally, some types of minimally invasive procedures are performed with the help of robotic technology.
Generally, most minimally invasive surgical techniques follow the same initial procedure. However, methods may differ depending on the procedure’s specific goal and target area. Some examples of common minimally invasive surgeries and their approaches include the following:
Once you are scheduled for a minimally invasive surgery, your doctor will also give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your procedure. You may be asked to undergo a full medical evaluation, blood tests, cardiovascular clearance, and others.
Additionally, your doctor might give you a list of medications to avoid (e.g., blood thinners), so make sure to disclose everything with them. They may also suggest you quit smoking and avoid alcohol consumption for as long as possible before the surgery and during recovery.
Most minimally invasive procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. This means that there’s no need to stay for more than a few days in the facility一you may be discharged that same day.
Generally, doctors perform minimally invasive surgeries with the help of anesthetics, which means you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
However, it’s normal to experience soreness, pain, and some swelling in the operated area right after the surgery. You will be given a list of instructions regarding proper medications, wound care, and other vital post-operative information for a faster recovery.
Additionally, your doctor will require you to avoid or limit physical activities during the recovery period. Some procedures may also entail physical therapy and rehabilitation as part of the recovery process.
Generally, it can take four to six weeks or more to recover from minimally invasive surgery. But, of course, it will still depend on the type of procedure performed, its complexity, and the severity of the patient’s condition.
The Orthopaedic Surgery Center of Panther Creek provides comprehensive orthopedic care to patients in need. Our board-certified physicians specialize in performing various minimally invasive procedures to diagnose, treat, and manage common orthopedic conditions.
Contact us now to experience world-class services and exceptional patient care at Raleigh Orthopedic and Panther Creek.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.