Plano, TX, Feb. 13, 2017 – Whether there’s a need to repair a hernia, remove a gallbladder or address another problem inside the body, more surgeons today are offering laparoscopic techniques whenever feasible. This alternative to open surgery offers patients a number of benefits that can make seeking out it out worthwhile.

“While there are occasions where open surgery is still the preferred method and the best recommendation, laparoscopic procedures provide patients with benefits that cannot be replicated during more invasive operations,” explains Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon of Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “Laparoscopy has enabled surgeons to accomplish the goals of open procedures while lessening the impacts on patients and their bodies.”

Although laparoscopic procedures vary based on the precise surgery being perform, they do share some common threads. This type of surgery calls for making several tiny incisions into the body instead of one large one. One of the incisions serves as an entry point for a tiny camera that enables surgeons to “see” inside and guide surgical tools. The other incisions serve as entry points for small, highly precise surgical tools.

“Considered much less invasive than standard, open surgical procedures, laparoscopic procedures are known to lower complication risks, reduce blood loss and speed up recovery time,” says Dr. Nicholson. “They are still surgical procedures, however, so patients need to be well aware of the potential risks and rewards before selecting this alternative.”

Laparoscopic procedures are often performed on an out-patient basis with patients spending only a few hours at a facility post-surgery. In some cases, hospitalization may be required, but it’s generally limited to only a day or so, depending on the procedures and the circumstances.

“Laparoscopy provides patients with a highly viable way to address serious problems, such as hernia repairs, without having to endure the rigors of open abdominal procedures,” says Dr. Nicholson. “When feasible, this alternative to open surgery is often highly recommended as a result.”

About Abdominal Surgery Specialists
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” Abdominal Surgery Specialists provides patients with a variety of options to treat conditions including gallbladders, hernias, reflux and obesity.