Laparoscopic Surgery
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Michael Todd Wood, MD, FACS
Board Certified General Surgeon & Complex Wound Care located in Houston, TX & Sugar Land, TX
Laparoscopic surgery can provide the same results as traditional or open surgery, but the procedure spares you pain, reduces certain surgical risks, and speeds up the healing process. Michael Todd Wood, MD, is a skilled general surgeon who specializes in laparoscopic procedures. With two locations in Sugar Land and one in Houston, Dr. Wood is committed to providing convenient, patient-focused surgical care to these Texas communities. If it’s time for surgery, schedule a visit online or call the office to determine whether you’re a candidate for a laparoscopic procedure.
Laparoscopic Surgery Q & A
What is laparoscopic surgery?
Also known as minimally invasive surgery, a laparoscopic procedure is performed through several small keyhole-size incisions rather than the long incisions required for traditional open surgery. Also called “ports,” laparoscopic incisions are typically less than a half-inch long. In comparison, open surgery may require incisions that range from 6-12 inches in length.
A small camera (laparoscope) is inserted into one port and surgical instruments are placed through the others. Dr. Wood then performs the procedure while viewing images of the surgical site transferred from the laparoscopic camera to a high-definition monitor.
What are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery?
The benefits of laparoscopic surgery include:
- Smaller postsurgical scars
- Generally shorter hospital stays
- Less pain during the healing process due to smaller, less-traumatic incisions
- A quicker return to normal activities
- Potentially less risk of bleeding and infection
Not every surgical procedure can be performed laparoscopically, but innovations in technology and surgical technique continue to expand the potential for minimally invasive surgery.
What conditions can be treated with laparoscopic surgery?
Dr. Wood has extensive training and experience in performing multiple types of laparoscopic surgery. He may recommend a laparoscopic procedure for surgical treatment of:
- Cancer of the small intestine or colon
- Hernias, including inguinal hernia, ventral hernia, and complex abdominal wall hernias
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia
- Gallstones and other gallbladder disorders requiring gallbladder removal
Not every individual is a candidate for laparoscopic surgery, but Dr. Wood is committed to providing the most conservative approach available whenever possible, which often includes minimally invasive surgery.
Is laparoscopic surgery safe?
Laparoscopic surgery has been used for decades to safely treat certain abdominal, orthopedic, and gynecological conditions. Its role has since expanded greatly due to its efficacy and overall safety rating. Laparoscopic surgery is considered as safe as traditional open surgery. Care must be taken, however, to select a surgeon such as Dr. Wood, who has the training and expertise necessary for providing laparoscopic surgery.
If you’re facing surgery, a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure may be your best option. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Wood today for an evaluation and further discussion. Call the practice closest to you or book your consultation online.
