How is minimally invasive surgery different?
Rather than make a large incision to gain access to the problem area, the surgeon inserts a thin telescope-like instrument called an endoscope. Light traveling along fibers in the endoscope lights internal organs or cavities and allows the surgeon or endoscopist to see inside the body. Other instruments used with the endoscope allow the surgeon to take photographs, obtain biopsies of tissue, and use lasers to cut, coagulate and vaporize tissue.

What kind of endoscope will be used for my procedure?
Endoscopes are used in many different areas of the body. They are available in various sizes and can be either rigid or flexible, depending on the requirements of the body area in which they are used. Some of the various types include:

• Laparoscope: Designed for viewing the abdominal area; used in gallbladder operations, hernia repair, appendix removal, hysterectomies and other procedures.
• Arthroscope: Designed for viewing the knee and other joints; used in arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery.
• Sinuscope: Designed for viewing nasal and sinus cavities; used in endoscopic sinus surgery.
• Cystoscope: Designed for viewing the bladder; used in prostate surgery and other procedures related to the urinary and reproductive systems.
• Hysteroscope: Designed for viewing the uterus and assisting with certain gynecological procedures.
• Colonoscope: Used for viewing the colon.
  

What is the role of the laser in minimally invasive surgery?
Laser beams are easily directed through scopes, which make it possible for lasers to be used in a variety of minimally invasive surgeries. When used to remove tissue, a laser coagulates blood vessels as it cuts, thereby reducing blood loss and often creating a drier surgical field, which allows the surgeon to see better. It is a precise instrument, so there is a little damage to surrounding tissue.

Exactly how could I benefit from minimally invasive surgery?
Each surgery is a distinct situation, and specific outcomes or expectations depend on a variety of factors. However, patients can generally expect the following advantages over conventional surgery:

• Less post-operative pain
• Reduced blood loss
• A shorter hospital stay, or no stay at all
• A quicker return to normal activities

Can minimally invasive techniques be used in every surgery?
Utilization of these techniques has expanded at a rapid pace in recent years. However, not all medical specialties or procedures have adopted these approaches. For certain situations, conventional surgery is still the generally accepted method. As training and endoscopic skills become more widespread, minimally invasive approaches are expected to expand further and set a new standard or surgical care.