4 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgery. The surgery often involves smaller incisions, specialized tools, and advanced imaging techniques compared to traditional surgery. 

The experienced team at Cory Bergman, MD, in Rapid City, South Dakota, and Casper, Wyoming, use minimally invasive glaucoma surgery whenever possible. 

Here are four key benefits of minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional surgery.

1. Reduced pain and scarring

One of the most significant benefits of minimally invasive surgery is the reduced pain and scarring experienced by patients. Traditional surgeries often require large incisions, leading to greater tissue damage and longer and more painful recovery periods. 

In contrast, minimally invasive procedures involve smaller incisions – sometimes only a few millimeters long. This not only results in less pain post-operation but also minimizes scarring. This is a crucial advantage for many patients, especially those concerned about the cosmetic outcomes of surgery.

2. Lower risk of complications

Minimally invasive surgery is associated with a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. The smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection, as there is less exposure of internal organs to potential external contaminants. 

Additionally, there is less blood loss during these procedures, decreasing the need for blood transfusions and reducing the risk of related complications.

The precision of minimally invasive techniques, often aided by advanced imaging technology, also minimizes the likelihood of inadvertently damaging surrounding tissues, nerves, or organs.

3. Shorter hospital stays and faster recovery

People getting minimally invasive surgery typically benefit from shorter hospital stays, and some procedures are even completed on an outpatient basis with no need for an overnight hospital stay. The less invasive nature of these procedures means that patients can often start their recovery process sooner. 

Shorter hospital stays also significantly reduce healthcare costs while faster recovery times allow you to return to your normal activities, including work, much sooner than you would after traditional surgery. 

4. Improved surgical outcomes

Minimally invasive surgery often results in better overall surgical outcomes. The precision and control provided by specialized surgical instruments and techniques allow surgeons to perform procedures more accurately. 

In procedures like laparoscopic surgery, for example, surgeons have a magnified, high-resolution view of the operating area, which enhances precision. This level of accuracy is particularly beneficial in complex procedures, leading to better success rates and patient outcomes.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bergman

If you’re considering glaucoma surgery, call the office or schedule an appointment online to see if you can benefit from our minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.