Single incision laparoscopic surgery or SILS is a fairly new method of performing laparoscopic surgery that requires only a single small incision, measuring 20mm. It is a minimally invasive surgical technique in which the surgeon works entirely through a single incision, which is usually created around the patient’s belly button. All of the surgical instruments are inserted through this single incision. There is significant reduction in pain and discomfort experienced by patients under this surgical approach, and the recovery time is also quick. If you are interested in getting a minimally invasive general or weight loss surgical procedure done in Dallas, this post could be helpful for you. Continue reading below to learn more about SILS.
How is SILS different from a traditional laparoscopic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgeries are popular these days for treatment of a variety of health conditions. Several surgeons are opting different kinds of laparoscopic surgical procedures over traditional open surgery which involves a large incision and results in a long recovery time. When it comes to the difference between a single incision and traditional laparoscopic surgery, the number of incisions made is the main differentiator.
In a traditional laparoscopic surgery, three to four tiny cuts, each measuring roughly around 1/2-1 cm, are created to implant tubes called “ports”. The surgical team then inserts a telescope coupled with a camera through one of the ports to view a magnified image of the internal organs on a television screen. The other ports are used to transfer instruments for the surgeon to perform the surgery.
In SILS, instead of making 3-4 incisions, the surgeon makes a single 20mm incision (usually just below the navel) to establish a specially constructed port through which they can insert both the telescope and the laparoscopic equipment. Single incision surgeries have a fast recovery time due to the fact that there is only one wound that needs healing. It also means that the patients will experience lesser pain post surgery compared to a traditional laparoscopic surgery. Additionally, a single incision under SILS results in only a minor scar which heals rapidly making the surgery a favorable option for people concerned about the cosmetic results of a surgical procedure.
Is SILS suitable for all patients?
Following are some of the conditions under which patients might not be deemed eligible for a single incision laparoscopic surgery :
- Those with obesity may not be eligible for SILS.
- Those who have had multiple abdominal procedures in the past do not make for good SILS candidates.
- Those with a severely sick organ that is grossly swollen or thickened, such as a highly inflamed gallbladder.
- Those whose diseased organs are located in difficult to reach areas in the body are also not good candidates for SILS.
It is strongly advised that you visit a surgeon to find out whether you are eligible or not for SILS. Doctors can analyze a patient’s health history in an informed manner to decide whether or not an SILS procedure could be of use for the treatment of their health issue.
If not SILS, then go for Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery
Patients who find out their not eligibility for SILS should not worry. In cases where a SILS is not possible, other minimally invasive and advanced surgical procedures like laparoscopic and robotic surgeries are recommended. A traditional laparoscopy still has a faster recovery period rather than an open surgery. As mentioned earlier, a variety of health conditions can be dealt with laparoscopic procedures including treatment for hernia, gallbladder, anti-reflux and colorectal surgery. Laparoscopic procedures are also great for a number of weight loss surgeries including Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy. And in cases where laparoscopic procedures are not possible such as difficult to reach organs in the body or in cases where high level of precision is required, advanced robotic surgery can be opted where surgeons ensure more control in conducting the surgery through the use of computer-controlled robotic arms compared to other conventional surgeries. But again whether a laparoscopic or robotic surgery is suitable for a patient can only be determined by a surgeon. For instance, if you consult your surgeon for a sleeve gastrectomy in Dallas or SIPS Procedure in Dallas, they may recommend you a laparoscopic or robotic surgery based on your health issue, health history, and budget.
Final word
Single incision laparoscopic procedure is a highly advanced laparoscopy technique which has revolutionized the field of surgery. However, as mentioned earlier, this technique is not suitable for everyone. To understand the suitability of the single incision laparoscopic procedure for your health condition, contact a leading surgeon near you. For residents looking for consultations for general and weight loss surgery in Dallas, get an appointment with a surgeon who is experienced in successfully conducting a number of surgical procedures.
