Almost every kind of doctor who performs surgery may use minimally invasive methods for some kinds of operations. Obsterictians and gynecologists often use laparoscopy to diagnose and treat women's health problems. General surgeons may use laparoscopy for gallbladder disease. Orthopedic surgeons perform minimally invasive procedures to repair the knee and other joints. Trauma surgeons may use the technique to identify and treat internal bleeding in accident victims.
- It takes special training to do laparoscopic surgery. Patients may get traditional "open" surgery because that is the only kind their doctor offers.
- Doctors need to perform laparoscopy regularly in order to develop and maintain their skills.
- Individuals considering laparoscopic surgery should ask the doctor the same basic questions that apply for any kind of surgery.
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Need To Know: Laparoscopy is not always the appropriate surgery of choice. For example, if you know a friend who had a gallbladder removed laparoscopically, it does not necessarily follow that this is the best procedure for removal of your gallbladder. |
