Dr. Koeplin is skilled in a variety of general surgery operations and techniques, and he’s always willing to discuss all your options so you can find a procedure that works best for you. One specific area his specializes in is minimally invasive or laparoscopic surgery. As the name implies, minimally invasive surgery uses techniques that create a very small surgical opening, and it has numerous benefits for the patient. Today, we take a look at the benefits of laparoscopic surgery compared to a traditional open operation.
Less Taxing On The Patient
Since the surgical opening is much smaller than the opening made in a traditional open operation, a laparoscopic procedure is inherently less taxing on the patient.
Reduced Infection Risk
Again, because the surgical opening is smaller, there is a reduced likelihood that harmful bacteria can enter the body and cause problems.
Less Bleeding
A smaller incision on the body means there is less bleeding from the opening itself, and it’s less likely that a doctor will clip a blood vessel since he or she is cutting less skin and tissue.
Smaller Scar
Minimally invasive incisions are usually only an inch or two in size, which helps to minimize the eventual scar. A traditional open operation can leave a person with a footlong scar or longer, depending on the operation being performed.
Quicker Patient Recovery
A minimally invasive procedure takes less time to heal that a larger open incision, meaning a patient will have a shorter recovery time if they opt for a laparoscopic operation.
Less Pain
Along a similar vein, a smaller incision site is associated with less pain and discomfort while recovering from surgery.
Shorter Hospital Stay
Not only will you have a shorter recovery time with a laparoscopic operation, but you’ll generally be released from the surgical center much earlier than if you undergo an open operation.
St. Paul Minimally Invasive General Surgery
While minimally invasive surgery has numerous benefits compared to traditional surgery, it’s not for everybody. For example, if you’re dealing with a pancreatic tumor or some sort of cancer, an open operation may be preferred to allow the doctor to better view the surgical site or to ensure the entire problem is adequately addressed. Also, since the tools used to perform a minimally invasive operation are expensive, a laparoscopic operation may not be available at all clinics.
Dr. Koeplin specializes in a number of laparoscopic operations, whether it involves removing gallstones, fixing GERD or taking care of a hernia. He knows he can help you with your general surgery condition. If you live in Minnesota and want to set up a consultation, contact Dr. Koeplin today.
