| Laparoscopic Versus Open Bariatric Surgery
A lot of people think that Laparoscopic surgery is still on the experimental stage. But the truth is, laparoscopy has been widely used in general surgeries particularly weight loss surgeries since the 1990’s.
A laparoscopic surgery involves the insertion of a tiny video camera into the abdomen as the surgeon looks on a separate monitor. This procedure gives them a clearer view and access to the anatomical structures.
Before surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions on the abdomen where the video cam and instruments are inserted. Laparoscopic procedures are considered less invasive than open surgeries because it prevents the need for longer incisions.
A study showed that people who underwent laparoscopic surgery experience minimal pain post surgery which then results to easier breathing. Also, there were reports of fewer wound or surgery complications and patients were able to resume activities more quickly.
The same principles apply with laparoscopic weight loss surgery versus their open-surgery counterparts. Although one is less invasive than the other, both produce similar weight loss results.
It is important however to know that not all people are candidates for laparoscopic weight loss surgery and not all bariatric surgeons are trained to do the procedure. According to the American Society for Bariatric Surgery, a laparoscopic weight loss surgery should be performed by a surgeon that is trained on both laparoscopic and open surgeries.
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