Today, specialists like our colorectal surgeon, Dr Shanthan Ganesh, have exciting technologies and techniques to support efficient, predictable treatment; fast healing; and minimal risks of undesirable side effects and complications. Laparoscopy refers to a minimally-invasive surgical process appropriate for almost every type of colon or rectal procedure formerly treated only with traditional “open” surgery techniques. 

Our specialty centre has invested in advanced technologies and training on advanced techniques, all with patient comfort, convenience, satisfaction, and the overall experience at heart. The laparoscopy-assisted or laparoscopic procedure is sometimes called “keyhole surgery.” Instead of using one large incision through which surgeons like Dr Ganesh perform a range of colorectal procedures, laparoscopic surgery involves using several “keyhole” incisions. These incisions are a fraction of the length of the incision that is made during open surgery. 

All variations on the laparoscopic surgical technique are performed mainly after administering general anaesthesia. Other fluids and medications are also administered intravenously throughout the procedure. Through one of the keyhole incisions, Dr Ganesh expertly inserts a port – a tiny, narrow tube through which a camera (laparoscope) is introduced. The laparoscope is a critical guide during surgery; images derived from this camera are viewed by Dr Ganesh on a monitor during surgery. 

More ports are also introduced to other incisions. These tubes are used to insert specialised instruments. These instruments are used to treat or resolve the underlying condition that requires surgical intervention. Dr Ganesh can clearly see how he is using these instruments on tissues in the abdomen, courtesy of the images derived from the laparoscope and transferred to the monitor in the OR. 

Laparoscopy may be used to treat several colorectal problems, from inflammatory bowel disorders to both benign and malignant tumours. Just a few of the applications for this form of minimally-invasive surgery include:

  • Hernia repair (inguinal, ventral/incisional, and congenital and traumatic)
  • Appendectomy or removal of an infected appendix
  • Colectomy or large bowel resection
  •  Small bowel resection
  • Cholecystectomy or gallbladder removal 
  • Diagnostics, to evaluate the inside of the abdomen due to chronic pain of unknown origin, suspected cancers, and other reasons 

Dr Ganesh may determine that this approach is appropriate for those patients who are otherwise healthy and within a healthy weight and who do not have excessive scar tissue from prior abdominal operations. Some characteristics, such as very large or very small hernias, may be better suited to other techniques. 

Phone us today at 08 81646727

Our team looks forward to meeting you. We are here for you through every step of treatment, with clear, understandable, and thorough instructions on preparing for your procedure and after-care. As with any procedure, there are risks associated with both minimally-invasive and open techniques. But, generally, laparoscopy and other less invasive approaches mean a reduced risk of infections and other problems during healing, as well as a faster return to work and “normalcy.” Smaller incisions also equal less severe and noticeable scars!