Minimally Invasive Surgery

How is minimally invasive surgery performed?

Traditional surgery usually requires a single, large incision. But minimally invasive surgery uses a series of smaller incisions.

Minimally invasive surgery is sometimes called laparoscopy, since it involves inserting a tiny camera through one of the small incisions. The camera lets the surgeon see without making a large incision.

Small instruments are inserted through other incisions. The number and location of incisions depends on the surgical procedure. Surgeons and surgical technicians use these tools to perform surgeries that once required large, open incisions and long, painful recoveries.

Diverticulitis: Is Surgery Right for You? - David Griffin, MD

Diverticular disease is a common condition that causes a weakening in the wall of the colon, resulting in marble-sized pouches, or diverticula, that protrude through the colon wall. When one or more of these becomes inflamed, it can cause cramping and pain, and lead to infection and fever. After a a handful of diverticulitis attacks, most people seek surgery to correct the problem. Tanner surgeons use minimally-invasive robotic surgery to remove the part of the colon causing the problem. This type of surgery shortens a patient's hospital stay and recovery time. View Dr. Griffin's physician profile >

Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair - Austin Lewis, MD

Could you have a hernia? Most people who have a hernia first notice a bulge or knot on their belly or groin area, which can be uncomfortable or even painful. According to Austin Lewis, MD, a surgeon with Carrollton Surgical Group, there are two main types of hernias: ventral hernias and inguinal hernias. Both types can be repaired with an outpatient surgery that is a traditional (open) surgery or a minimally invasive surgery. The latter provides a faster recovery and less post-operative pain. View Dr. Lewis' physician profile >

Hemorrhoids: Causes, Treatments and Prevention - Brian Barden, MD

According to Brian Barden, MD, a board-certified surgeon with Carrollton Surgical Group, hemorrhoid disease is caused primarily by pregnancy and excessive straining in the bathroom. Most hemorrhoid patients experience swelling and pain, turning first to over-the-counter remedies. When those no longer suffice, Dr. Barden performs hemorrhoid banding, a revolutionary outpatient procedure requiring no anesthesia and no downtime. Some hemorrhoids may require an outpatient surgery that requires a longer recovery. No matter which surgery is performed, the relief can be life-changing for hemorrhoid patients.