Otherwise known as laparoscopic surgery, minimally invasive surgery or MIS is a surgical procedure that makes use of microscopes and tiny fiber-optic flashlights.
The instruments used in the procedure are inserted in small incisions or ports in the body.
This advanced surgical procedure is preferred by many as it minimizes blood loss and less scarring is involved.
What are other incomparable benefits of minimally invasive surgery?
Reduced scarring – in most cases, closing minimally invasive surgery incisions will only require a stitch or two.
Shorter recovery period – conventional surgeries will usually require six to eight weeks of recovery time. When it comes to minimally invasive procedures however, recovery period can be as short as two weeks.
Enhanced safety – minimally invasive surgeries are deemed safer compared to open surgery as there is less blood loss and trauma.
Shorter hospital stay – majority of the patients are allowed to go home a few hours after the surgery. Conventional surgeries will often involve staying in the hospital for a day or more.
Lower risk for infection – with minimally invasive surgery, risk for infection is significantly minimized as it is less invasive.
Preparing for MIS
Although considered less invasive, preparation is still necessary to ensure the procedure is successful.
Get your preparation on the right track by asking your surgeon the following key questions:
What happens during a minimally invasive surgery?
Know the specifics.
Ask for basics like how long the procedure will likely take, the instruments that will be used (and how many), the number of incisions needed, etc.
List down the things you would want to know about so you will have a much better idea of what you are getting yourself into.
Are there any possible side effects?
While pain is expected after surgery, it might turn out to be somewhere you least expected.
If you are not much of a fun of surprises, it would be best to check with your surgeon as to where you will most likely feel pain and discomfort.
It would also be a good idea to ask as to how long the pain and discomfort will likely last and how it severe it can possibly be.
How long is the likely recovery period?
While most minimally invasive procedures are done on an outpatient basis, some are not.
Ensure you have a clear idea of the needed time for recovery so you can set the right expectations and make preparations in advance.
Check also if you will be needing physical therapy.
Pre-Surgery Preparations
The night prior to the procedure, it would be ideal to take a shower and wash and clean the surgical site.
Alcohol intake is not allowed the day before the surgery.
When necessary, your surgeon will give you specific directions on bowel preparation.
Using creams, moisturizers, lotions, and makeup is also not allowed on the day of the surgery.
There is also a high probability you will be asked to abstain from eating and drinking after midnight prior to your surgery schedule.
Post-Surgery Expectations
After the surgery, you will most likely spend two or three hours in the recovery room.
You will be given antibiotics and pain medications.
Once you are able to move and urinate comfortably, the urinary catheter will already be removed.
As mentioned earlier, most minimally invasive procedures will not require a hospital stay but some may entail that you stay hospitalized for a few days.
Once the dressing incisions have been removed, you will be allowed to take a shower.
Pain medications and other prescriptions will also be given upon discharge. It will also be the ideal time to check with your doctor as to when you can continue with your usual routine without any restrictions.
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