Minimally invasive surgical procedures are gaining traction in the medical world. This is because, as the name suggests, patients get more health and wellness benefits. With minimally invasive surgeries, patients enjoy shorter recovery times and less invasion as cuts and incisions are smaller and easier to manage. Minimally invasive surgeries also present lower chances of excessive blood loss, according to Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Nashville TN – 615 267 6600 – Dr. Juriis Shibayama.
Generally presenting fewer risks and complications compared to traditional open surgery, Minimally Invasive surgeries are beginning to take over in the medical world. However, not all conditions can be addressed using this procedure.
Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Open Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is the future of surgical procedures. This method allows surgeons to explore alternative techniques that limit the size and number of cuts or incisions made during surgery. With this type of method, patients are considered to be less at risk. Minimally invasive surgeries also offer patients more recovery advantages as they can leave the hospital earlier than usual.
For traditional open surgery, the surgeon makes as many necessary incisions and cuts to get to the root of the problem. This method often comes with much more pain and lengthier recovery times. Patients may also be held at the hospital for an extended time to monitor their vitals and healing.
With traditional open surgery, patients are far more at risk of complications. This is because of the larger surfaces available for contaminants.
How Minimally Invasive Surgery Works
Minimally invasive surgeries leverage small tools, cameras, and light designed to fit through small openings in the skin. Instead of the traditional method that requires pitting larger tools and hands inside the patient, this method leverages miniature tools.
This surgical method is often completed with robotic technology and delivers more precise cuts and snips wherever needed. With robotic surgery, the surgeon also has better control over the procedure. It is important to note that not all minimally invasive surgeries are powered by robotic technology.
How does robotic surgery work?
Robotic surgery is also called robotic-assisted surgery. This type of surgery is conducted by a trained surgeon on a patient at an electronic operating station. Unlike the traditional surgery where the surgeon and their team stand over the patient, the tools are controlled from the operating station, allowing the surgeon more time and space to make clear-cut and precise decisions.
To undergo this type of surgery, surgeons will;
- Place the patients under anesthesia to keep them asleep and numb to pain throughout the procedure.
- Set up the needed tools, much like an open surgery but with specialized and miniature robotic tools.
- Make several small incisions at the necessary sites. These incisions provide a point of entry for the robotic tools.
- Inserts tools attached to the robotic arms into the patient’s body to locate the problem point and work on it.
- Perform surgery monitored on the operating unit’s screen with an endoscope (camera for navigating inside the body) and needed tools under the skin.
- Remove all tools at the end of the surgery and stitch the incision area to prevent infections.
Which conditions can be treated with Minimally Invasive surgery?
Minimally invasive surgeries have proven effective in addressing a wide range of health conditions. Some of the common health problems addressed using this surgical method include;
Lung problems like emphysema, cancer, tumors
Heart problems like mitral valve prolapse, repair of heart valves, and atrial fibrillation (AFib)
Urologic system problems like kidney removal or a transplant, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, kidney blockage, cysts, or stones, prostate cancer, trouble controlling urination or bowel movement, etc.
Spine related conditions
Digestive system problems like gallbladder cancer, colectomy, colon or rectal cancer, liver cancer, etc.
How do I know if minimally invasive spine surgery is for me?
Sadly, not everyone is qualified to experience this surgical method despite the many advantages attached. Most people battling chronic pain may not be a candidate for this procedure, especially because they do not require surgical intervention to address their problem. Other people who may be unable to enjoy this surgical procedure are those with unhealthy lifestyles and habits like smoking.
Surgeons advise that people who do well for this procedure engage in a healthy and active lifestyle. Some common positive traits include regular exercise, non-smoking, and participation in sports and recreational activities.
One may not be able to determine whether they are right for a minimally invasive surgery until after consulting a surgical specialist. The specialist is in the best position to assess the present situation and determine the next and best line of action.
