What Qualifies a Procedure as Minimally Invasive?

Minimally invasive surgery has transformed the way surgeons perform many of the most common procedures, from hernia repair to hysterectomy. It’s a modern technique that offers patients a quicker, less painful alternative to traditional open surgeries — and better results to boot.

But what exactly qualifies a procedure as minimally invasive, and why is it so beneficial compared with traditional methods? Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, specializes in minimally invasive surgery in Laguna Hills, California, and she’s here to help answer your questions.

Defining minimally invasive surgery

In general, a surgical procedure is considered minimally invasive when it’s performed through small incisions that are about the size of keyholes. Small incisions require specialized tools, like a laparoscope or robotic instruments, in contrast to large cuts made in traditional surgery.

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most common types, and it involves using a thin tube with a camera and light attached (the laparoscope), which allows Dr. Klause to see the inside of your body via a monitor. Dr. Klause then uses small instruments that she inserts through other small incisions to perform your procedure.

Robotic-assisted surgery is another minimally invasive technique that offers even greater precision. In robotic surgery, Dr. Klause controls robotic arms from a console in the operating room to perform delicate tasks through small incisions.

Examples of minimally invasive procedures

Many different types of surgeries can use minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Klause specializes in minimally invasive gallbladder removal and hernia repair.

In minimally invasive gallbladder removal, or laparoscopic cholecystectomy, Dr. Klause makes small incisions and removes your gallbladder as one way to eliminate gallstone symptoms. Similarly, with minimally invasive hernia repair, Dr. Klause uses small incisions and specialized tools to fix your hernia. 

Both procedures are effective options that offer faster healing and less discomfort for patients.

Key benefits of minimally invasive procedures

The goal of minimally invasive surgery is to minimize trauma to surrounding healthy tissues during surgery and reduce your overall recovery time. 

Here are the key features that set minimally invasive surgeries apart:

Smaller incisions

Most incisions in minimally invasive procedures are only a few millimeters long. These small cuts are much less invasive than the large incisions required for open surgery, which can be several inches long.

Less scarring

With smaller incisions comes less visible scarring. Patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures often have scars that are barely noticeable once healed.

Reduced pain and discomfort

Smaller incisions mean less damage to tissues and muscles, resulting in significantly less postoperative pain compared with traditional surgery. Not only can recovery be more comfortable, but minimally invasive procedures can also reduce the need for strong pain medications during recovery.

Quicker recovery

Most people return to their normal activities much faster than they would after traditional surgery. This includes shorter hospital stays (or even same-day discharge) and fewer complications during recovery.

Lower risk of complications

The benefits of minimally invasive surgery extend beyond just smaller scars and less pain during recovery. 

Minimally invasive procedures generally carry a lower risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. That’s because the use of advanced technology and smaller incisions reduces the chance of postsurgical issues, and it makes minimally invasive surgery a safer option for many patients.

Is minimally invasive surgery right for you? The type of surgery you need, your overall health, and the complexity of your condition determine whether this approach is appropriate. 

Find out more about your options in a consultation with Dr. Klause. Call us at 949-245-6910 or request an appointment online to get started.