Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery
Facing major surgery of any kind can be a difficult process filled with uncertainty and the possibility of pain, scarring and downtime from work and normal activity. But thanks to recent advances in laparoscopic techniques and surgical equipment, patients facing the prospect of certain types of surgery have a new choice that promises to greatly reduce post-operative affects associated with more invasive procedures.
Dr. Hien Nguyen, FACS, a surgeon on the medical staff of Union Hospital recently performed the first one-incision laparoscopic procedure in the Delmarva Region. Called SILSTM (Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery), the procedure allows surgeons to make one single incision, about a half of an inch in length, through the umbilicus, or belly button.
Through that entryway, surgeons place an access port, which holds specially designed cameras and instruments used during this minimally invasive procedure. "Single-incision laparoscopic surgery is an evolving technology which is showing great promise for patients who need minimally-invasive surgery," says Nguyen, MD, FACS. "Because there are fewer incisions, there is less chance of infection and less scarring-that means a better cosmetic result and a faster recovery," says Dr. Nguyen. ." Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), appendectomy, hiatal hernia, and colon surgery are the most common surgeries that can successfully employ the SILSTM technique.
Francis Thompson, Dr Nguyen's patient and a Cecil County resident, is one of the first patients to undergo the procedure at Union Hospital. "I went home the same day of surgery and had very minimal discomfort," says Thompson. "If my employer didn't have a lifting restriction, I would have been back to work in a few days. I was also impressed with the Dr. Nguyen's staff and level of patient care."
Dr. Nguyen's surgical group is just one of a handful of general surgical teams in the area that are advancing the technique. Dr. Nguyen points out that other surgeons in the region are coming to Union Hospital to observe the procedure. A spokesperson for the medical device company that supplies the instruments used in the SILSTM procedure says that Dr. Nguyen's group was selected for their advanced general laparoscopic surgical skills. "Conducting surgery via one incision is the wave of the future. Cosmetically, it is as close to incision-less surgery that can be performed-it's an honor for Union Hospital to have been selected," says Dr. Nguyen.
Currently, patients who may not be considered candidates for the SILSTM gallbladder procedure include those with a badly inflamed gallbladder, liver failure, bleeding disorders, or prior umbilical surgery.
If you are interested in learning more about this procedure call Dr. Nguyen's office at 410-398-3950.