Our Summary

This research paper talks about a new method in both human and animal surgery known as single-port surgery. This technique allows all surgical tools, including the telescope (a tool that helps doctors see inside the body), to go through the same cut in the abdomen. Recently, several studies have shown that this technique is effective and safe for use in animals. The article discusses the typical devices and tools used in single-port surgery, as well as the types of procedures that are now commonly performed using this less invasive method.

FAQs

  1. What is single-port surgery in the context of laparoscopy?
  2. Are there any published reports that document the safety and efficacy of single-port procedures in veterinary patients?
  3. What are the common single-port devices and procedures used in veterinary minimally invasive surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting before the procedure and taking any prescribed medications as directed. Proper preparation can help reduce the risk of complications and ensure a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic surgery include those with conditions such as gallstones, hernias, appendicitis, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and certain types of cancer. Laparoscopic surgery is often preferred for its minimally invasive nature, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. However, not all patients may be suitable candidates for laparoscopic surgery, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the best course of treatment for each individual case.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Pre-operative preparation, including fasting and possibly taking medication to prevent infection.
  3. Anesthesia is administered before the surgery begins.

During laparoscopic surgery:

  1. The surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) to visualize the internal organs.
  2. Additional small incisions are made to insert surgical instruments to perform the procedure.
  3. The surgeon operates while watching a video monitor that displays the images from the laparoscope.

After laparoscopic surgery:

  1. The patient is monitored in a recovery area until they are awake and stable.
  2. Pain medication is provided as needed to manage any discomfort.
  3. The patient may be discharged the same day or stay overnight for observation, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time expected to be after the procedure?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or will this be an outpatient procedure?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  5. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic surgery?
  6. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  7. What is the success rate of laparoscopic surgery for my specific condition?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing laparoscopic surgery?
  9. What should I expect during the recovery period and are there any restrictions on activities?
  10. Will there be any scarring from the incisions made during the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Wormser C, Runge JJ. Journal: Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2016 Jan;46(1):63-84. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2015.08.001. PMID: 26604155