Our Summary

This research paper talks about the use of advanced technology and specialized tools in the field of surgery. It discusses how such innovations have allowed surgeons to carry out minimally invasive surgery (MIS), a type of procedure that results in less swelling, less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recoveries. The paper focuses on how these techniques are used in oral and facial surgeries, including those involving the jaw joint, cheek bone, and salivary duct system. However, the paper does not discuss the use of these techniques in cosmetic surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery (MIS)?
  2. What are some of the areas of the body that can be accessed using oral and maxillofacial endoscopic techniques?
  3. Are endoscopic techniques used in facial cosmetic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about minimally invasive surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before the procedure and stopping certain medications as advised. It is important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare team, and to follow post-operative instructions for optimal recovery. Additionally, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle before surgery can help improve outcomes and speed up the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for minimally invasive surgery include those who can benefit from less swelling, less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to daily activities. Specifically, patients who may benefit from minimally invasive surgery in the oral and maxillofacial field include those requiring access to the ramus condyle unit, maxillary sinus, zygoma, orbit, temporomandibular joint, and salivary ductal system. These techniques are also used in noncosmetic facial surgeries, such as arthroscopy and sialoendoscopy. Overall, patients who can benefit from the advantages of minimally invasive surgery are often recommended for these procedures.

Timeline

Before Minimally Invasive Surgery:

  • Patient consults with surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative tests and evaluations are conducted
  • Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting and medication adjustments
  • Surgery date is scheduled

During Minimally Invasive Surgery:

  • Patient is given anesthesia
  • Surgeon makes small incisions or uses specialized instruments to access the surgical site
  • Surgery is performed with the guidance of a camera or endoscope
  • Procedure is completed with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues

After Minimally Invasive Surgery:

  • Patient is monitored in recovery room
  • Pain management and recovery instructions are given
  • Patient may be discharged home the same day or after a short hospital stay
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and recovery
  • Patient can usually resume normal activities sooner than with traditional surgery techniques

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure will be performed with minimally invasive surgery?
  2. How does minimally invasive surgery differ from traditional surgery for this condition?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with minimally invasive surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after minimally invasive surgery?
  5. Will there be any scarring or cosmetic changes as a result of the procedure?
  6. How many minimally invasive surgeries have you performed for this condition, and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or treatments after the minimally invasive surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition besides minimally invasive surgery?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the minimally invasive surgery?
  10. How long will the minimally invasive surgery take, and will I need to stay in the hospital overnight?

Reference

Authors: Hakim MA, McCain JP, Ahn DY, Troulis MJ. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2019 Nov;31(4):561-567. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2019.07.001. Epub 2019 Aug 28. PMID: 31473064