Laparoscopy and robotic surgery are minimally invasive surgical techniques. These procedures are considered minimally invasive because they do not require a large incision like traditional open surgery. While open procedures require incisions that are several inches long, robotic surgeries and laparoscopies only require small incisions and usually require less healing time. Many gynecologic procedures can now be performed laparoscopically or with robotic assistance rather than open procedures.
What is Laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is a type of surgery performed using one or more small incisions. These procedures are done using an instrument called a laparoscope, which is a long thin tube with a light and a camera attached to the end.
The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. The light and the camera allow the surgeon to visualize the area they are operating on without needing to perform an open procedure. Other instruments needed for surgical procedures can also be used with the laparoscope, usually inserted through other small incisions in the abdomen. In some cases, the instruments can be inserted through the same incision, which is called a “single-site” laparoscopy.
What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is similar to laparoscopic surgery in that it only requires small incisions. With the patient under general anesthesia, a small robotic arm is placed in the abdomen through a small incision. The robotic arm includes small surgical tools that allow the surgeon to make precise movements. Robotic surgical systems give surgeons the ability to operate with even more dexterity and precision than with endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures. Robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform procedures that were once only possible with open procedures.
Doctors undergo extensive training to master robotic surgical systems so they can provide quality care to their patients. At Raleigh OB/GYN Centre, our physicians Dr. Brimmage and Dr. Segal are well versed in using the da Vinci system to provide expert treatment to our patients.
Benefits of Laparoscopy & Robotic Surgery
Laparoscopy and robotic surgery have many benefits for patients due in most part to the smaller incisions.
- Less scarring
- Less blood loss
- Less pain and less need for medication
- Shorter hospital stay
- Shorter recovery time
Gynecologic Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy and robotic surgery can be used to perform the following gynecologic surgeries:
- Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus
- Oopherectomy: Surgical removal of one or both ovaries
- Tubal ligation: Permanent birth control procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut, tied or blocked to prevent pregnancy
Laparoscopy and robotic surgery can also be used to diagnose and treat the following gynecologic conditions
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Ectopic pregnancy
The physicians, nurses, and medical staff at Raleigh OB/GYN offer a comprehensive list of gynecological and obstetric services to the women of the Raleigh, NC area. If you have questions about laparoscopy or robotic surgery, call our office at (919) 876-8225 to make an appointment.
