Minimally invasive surgery, also called "laparoscopic" surgery, is an alternative to traditional open surgery. It allows our surgeons to complete the same operation, but with much smaller incisions. In turn, that can mean less pain and a faster recovery for you.
UMass Memorial Medical Center is among a group of leading hospitals across the country continually breaking new ground in minimally invasive surgery. In fact, our colon and rectal surgeons employ minimally invasive procedures whenever appropriate for you. For example, surgery for Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, cancer, rectal prolapse and severe constipation is routinely performed using this type of technique.
In early 2005, we partnered with a technology leader to build the region's most advanced, minimally invasive surgical suites. We continue to enhance our facilities to ensure you have access to state-of-the-art surgical care.
Key advantages of minimally invasive surgery
Because the incisions are smaller, you typically experience:
- Less pain
- Minimal scarring
- Less risk of infection and complications
- Faster recovery
- Less risk of bowel obstructions after surgery
- Quicker return to normal activities
How this type of surgery works
- The surgeon makes several small incisions, typically less than a half-inch each.
- Through one of these incisions, the surgeon inserts a special camera called a laparoscope. This sends clear, detailed images to as many as three television monitors in the operating room, many with the visual clarity equal to a high-definition television.
- The surgical team uses these monitors to "see into" the operating site without having to open up the abdomen.
- Team members use other specialized instruments through other small incisions to complete the procedure.
This is just one of the many medical advances that you can conveniently access at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, MA.
Other medical advances: