Laparoscopic surgery is a modern surgical technique in which operations are performed far from their location through small incisions (usually 0.5–1.5 cm).

There are a number of advantages to the patient with laparoscopic surgery versus the more common, open procedure. Pain and hemorrhaging are reduced due to smaller incisions and recovery times are shorter. The key element in laparoscopic surgery is the use of a laparoscope, a long fiber optic cable system which allows viewing of the affected area by snaking the cable from a more distant, but more easily accessible location.

Advantages

:: Reduced hemorrhaging, which reduces the chance of needing a blood transfusion.

:: Smaller incision, which reduces pain and shortens recovery time, as well as resulting in less post-operative scarring.

:: Less pain, leading to less pain medication needed.

:: Although procedure times are usually slightly longer, hospital stay is less, and often with a same day discharge which leads to a faster return to everyday living.

   

:: Reduced exposure of internal organs to possible external contaminants thereby reduced risk of acquiring infections.