Minimally Invasive Surgery

The most advanced laparoscopic surgical techniques in Fort Myers and Naples are at GI Surgical Specialists.

Dr. Denk offers a variety of laparoscopic and single incision surgical procedures:

• Hernia Repairs
• Gallbladder Removal
• Appendix Removal
• Abdominal Surgery
• Splenectomy
• Colon and Rectal
• Pancreatic Surgery
• Laparoscopic Pyloroplasty
• POEM or Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy
• Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy
• Diagnostic Procedures

Minimally invasive surgical procedures are either completed laparoscopically, using a number of small incisions, or with the single incision technique. Both techniques are minimally invasive and offer benefits over traditional or open surgical procedures. The best surgical technique is determined based on factors like the type of operation, severity of a condition or perceived complications.

Laparoscopic vs. Single Incision Surgery

Your surgeon will determine what type of minimally invasive surgery is best for you. While some procedures can be completed through a single incision, others require multiple openings in the abdomen.

Laparoscopic procedures are completed through five or more minor openings in the abdomen. The surgeon uses a laparoscope, a long flexible tube equipped with a camera, light and other surgical equipment to assess the condition and make any repairs. During the procedure a magnified image of the body is projected onto a screen in the operating room.

Single incision surgery is a type of laparoscopic surgery, but instead of requiring multiple small openings in the abdomen the operation is completed through one opening in the belly button. Using similar tools to a traditional laparoscopic operation, the surgeon is able to monitor progress during the operation via a video screen in the operating room.

Laparoscopic and single incision surgeries both feature a number of benefits:

• Minimal scarring
• Reduced postoperative pain
• Reduced hospital stay
• Reduced recovery period
• Reduced risk of infection
• Reduced risk of surgical complications

Hernias can be repaired, gallbladders can be removed and other conditions can be treated during either type of laparoscopic operation, but for some conditions one is better than the other. Laparoscopic surgery will result in minimal scarring, but after single incision surgery the car will be hidden by the belly button.

Procedures that can be performed via single incision surgery at GI Surgical Specialists are:

• Inguinal hernia repair
• Gallbladder and appendix removal
• Colon surgery
• Reflux surgery
• Small intestine procedures
• Liver biopsy
• LAP-BAND and Lap Sleeve surgery