There are many reasons a patient may need a segment of colon removed and traditionally this required large incisions in the abdomen in order to perform this. Advances in technology over the last two decades have allowed us to transition our normal open abdominal surgeries to a minimally invasive approach termed “laparoscopy”.

Laparoscopy utilizes small incisions on the abdomen, filling the abdomen with carbon dioxide and gas, and using high definition cameras and equipment to adequately visualize the intra-abdominal structures. We have developed over time specialized graspers, scissors and other equipment that have allowed us to safely free all the attachments to the colon that are necessary to perform a resection without large incisions.

Procedures that we regularly perform laparoscopically include removal of the right colon, transverse colon, left colon, sigmoid colon and rectum. At times, this may require removal of more than one portion of the colon and, therefore, operating in multiple areas of the abdomen. The rectum presents a special challenge for laparoscopy in that the pelvis is a difficult area to operate in in any situation. Here at Surgical Group we have many surgeons who have specifically trained in these technologies to minimize the postoperative pain and postoperative stress that surgery can cause.

Contraindications to laparoscopic surgery include multiple prior abdominal operations and significant scar tissue left over from prior abdominal operations. In addition, acute inflammation from conditions such as diverticulitis or Crohn’s disease makes laparoscopy more difficult. At times, a larger incision is made to allow a hand to work within the abdomen while the other hand is outside the abdomen working with the specialized equipment. This is called “laparoscopic assisted” colon surgery and still minimizes the incisions and, therefore, postoperative pain and discomfort that is typical with colon surgery.

Understand that smaller incisions mean a faster recovery. This usually translates to a shorter stay in the hospital and quicker time to return to normal daily activities. What does not change is the fact that the surgery inside your abdomen is still the same large surgery that would have been performed through larger incisions. This takes its toll on your immune system and on your reserves and, therefore, an appropriate recovery time should still be anticipated despite having had a laparoscopic colon resection. Do not be afraid to discuss your concerns about surgery with your surgeon as the most important factor to your recovery is your comfort with the surgeon performing your operation and your understanding of the procedure you are about to go through.