Minimally Invasive Surgery Options for Colon & Rectal Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) usually refers to either a Laparoscopic or Robotic approach to an operation. MIS refers to specialized techniques of smaller incisions and instruments and visualization that are utilized when performing the operation in question. These techniques have been used for numerous surgical needs including those pertaining to the gall bladder, intestine, as well as the colon and rectum. 

Typically, patients who undergo MIS report less pain after the completion of the operation as well as undergoing a faster recovery with less scarring. This type of surgery is just as safe if not safer than  a traditional surgery and MIS can be done both laparoscopically and robotically.

Robotic And Laparoscopic Surgery Options

These modern surgical techniques make use of the laparoscope, or a long fiber optic cable system that allows for easy internal viewing of the human body. The surgeons at Alabama Colon and Rectal Institute provide both traditional laparoscopic as well as robotic surgical options for our patients. 

However, while both operations are considered minimally invasive surgery, they do tend to have some differences. In a more traditional laparoscopic surgery,  small incisions are made by the surgeon and the camera is held by a medical professional. The instruments are directly controlled by the physician and are straight. In robotic surgery, the camera and instruments are moved by the robot that is controlled by the surgeon sitting at a console in the room. The control over the instruments and the visualization can be superior with robotic surgery. 

Basic Information on Minimally Invasive Surgery

Surgery is different for every patient, as such it's important to note that your experience may differ from the norm. With that in mind, the average patient should prepare and expect the following:

• Minimally invasive surgery most often requires general anesthesia. As such, patients should plan not to drive after the surgery. 
• Tissue may be removed for biopsy and to document potential health issues. 
• Most patients undergoing minimally invasive colon surgery will require 1-3 nights in the hospital.
• The patient will be provided with instructions on how best to prepare for the surgery including a bowel prep that is frequently necessary before the operation. 
• Pain is often much less after MIS often resulting in a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery and potentially fewer long-term risks than traditional open surgery.