Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a surgical technique that allows surgeons to perform operations with small wounds on the body, setting it apart from traditional open surgery.
Through these small incisions, specialised instruments can be used for surgical dissection during the minimally invasive procedure.
Vastly superior outcomes including faster recovery, less pain, better cosmesis and reduced blood loss benefit patients significantly. The reduction in the length of hospitalisation leads to better cost-effectiveness and more optimal utilisation of healthcare resources.
Exploring Minimally Invasive Surgery Types
Laparoscopic surgery
Laparoscopy, often called “keyhole surgery,” is a classic form of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS). It involves inserting a small video camera and surgical instruments through small incisions to provide a clear view of the operative field on a monitor, thereby facilitating the surgery.
Robotic Surgery
Robotic Surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery with a stable operative platform that is integrated with enhanced three-dimensional (3D) visualisation and magnification to augment the surgeon’s depth of perception and clarity of vision during surgery.
The operative workflow is delivered through robotic instruments which provide enhanced articulation and eliminates human hand tremors, thus facilitating superior operative dexterity with augmented precision for surgical dissection while preserving stable tissue retraction.
This state-of-the-art approach to surgical care represents a remarkable advancement in medical technology.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) offers several advantages, making it a popular choice in surgery. Here are some of the benefits:
- Less Pain: The critical feature of MIS is that it uses small incisions during the procedure. Naturally, these more minor cuts result in less post-operative pain. Patients frequently mention a significant decrease in pain compared to traditional surgeries.
- Quicker Recovery: When there’s less stress on the body, it speeds up recovery. This means patients can return to regular routines faster, reducing downtime and inconvenience.
- Reduced Scarring: MIS offers a significant aesthetic benefit. Small incisions result in minimal scarring, preventing noticeable reminders of the procedure for patients.
- Lower Risk of Infection: With minimal exposure of internal organs and tissues during minimally invasive surgery (MIS), the chances of post-surgery infections decrease, leading to a safer recovery.
- Shorter Hospital Stay: One clear advantage of a faster recovery is spending less time in the hospital. This reduces stress and gets you back home sooner.
- Cost Savings: When hospital stays are shorter, and recovery is quicker, it usually leads to lower medical costs. For patients, this results in quality healthcare without a high price.
- Enhanced Precision: Modern MIS uses advanced technology, enabling surgeons to perform with exceptional accuracy. This precision often leads to better surgical outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.
Minimally invasive surgery aims to attain the same therapeutic or diagnostic outcomes as traditional open surgery or invasive procedures while minimising the physical trauma inflicted on the patient’s body. This approach aligns with the current emphasis on enhancing healthcare quality.
New Developments in Robotic Surgery
The field of robotic surgery is advancing at a rapid pace, thanks to the progress made in materials and the continuous improvement of software and hardware in robotic platforms such as the Da Vinci Surgical System. As a result, surgical procedures are becoming increasingly safe, efficient, and minimally invasive. Here are some of the latest innovations in this field:
- Hardware Advancements: The surgeon’s hand movements are translated into precise movements of the robotic arms, allowing for enhanced dexterity, precision, and control during surgery.
- Haptic Feedback: New systems provide better feedback, improving surgical control. This technique minimises invasiveness, leading to faster recovery.
Comparing Minimally Invasive and Open Surgery
| Aspect | Minimally Invasive Surgery | Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Incision | Small incisions typically 5-10mm each | Longer wound |
| Recovery Time | Usually quicker | Often longer |
| Pain After Surgery | Generally reduced | Can be significant |
| Scarring | Minimal, less noticeable | More visible, larger scars |
| Risk of Infection | Typically lower | Slightly higher due to bigger incisions |
| Hospital Stay | Shorter, sometimes even outpatient | Usually requires longer stays |
| Precision | Enhanced with instruments and adjuncts like cameras or robots | Direct visualisation |
| Best Suited For | Procedures where access can be gained through small openings | Procedures where a larger view or direct access is needed, surgical emergencies |
Remember that although a minimally invasive procedure may seem appealing (and it usually is!), the decision between MIS and open surgery relies on the medical circumstance and what would benefit the patient the most.
It’s a good idea to consult an experienced surgeon for the best approach.
Closing Thoughts
The development of minimally invasive surgery is driven by improving patient care and enhancing surgical outcomes. As technology continues to advance, the field of MIS is expected to evolve further, offering even more superior and effective treatment options. If you ever need surgery, remember to discuss with your doctor the surgical options that may be suitable for you.
Images: Envato
Melissa Fann
Trevor Klass
