Outpatient Minimally Invasive Surgeries - A Descriptive Review

Introduction

Surgical procedures underwent a great transformation with the advancements in the minimally invasive techniques. An individual undergoing a minimally invasive surgery (MIS), need not be admitted to the hospital for days together. It can be done on an outpatient basis and hence crosses the limitation set by traditional surgical procedures. The field of MIS has been evolving regularly and has reshaped the entire surgical field. The important role of technology in carrying out minimally invasive surgeries and surgical interventions is briefly described in this article.

What Is Outpatient MIS?

Outpatient minimally invasive surgery is a procedure where the surgery is carried out in a way that does not require the admission of a patient in a hospital for days and can be done on an outpatient basis. The MIS procedure involves intricate surgical skills and equipment for a better outcome. This has many benefits that ensure the commitment to the safety and comfort of the patient. Along with the advancements in technology, there is more refinement in carrying out the procedure to improve the efficiency according to the individual needs.

What Is the Evolution of Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures?

There has been an evolutionary transformation with the introduction of minimally invasive surgeries. With its increased efficiency in safety and vast innovations, minimally invasive surgeries were the cornerstones of medical technology. The evolution of MIS (minimally invasive surgeries) dates back to 400 BC when a surgical procedure was carried out without making large incisions. This helped in exploring the field and further advancements. The evolution involves upgrading the skill of the surgeon along with the innovative invention of instruments by eliminating the cumbersome equipment with sophisticated and robotically controlled tools.

What Are the Various Outpatient Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures?

Outpatient minimally invasive procedures are done in various aspects of surgeries, a few of which are mentioned below.

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Laparoscopic procedures are carried out to identify and evaluate the internal aspects of the gastrointestinal tract, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves removing the gallbladder. A small incision is made through a specialized instrument using a small incision.

• Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Laparoscopic appendectomy involves the removal of the appendix through certain small incisions, and the patient can go home on the same day.

• Joint Surgery: Arthroscopy procedures make use of specialized instruments with a small camera called an arthroscope, which performs shoulder, knee, and hip procedures usually on an outpatient basis.

• Repair of Hernia: Hernia can be repaired using minimally invasive techniques by inserting a mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall. Usually, the patients are discharged on the same day.

• Cataract Surgery: The most common procedure that is indicated for clear vision in the elderly is cataract surgery. This procedure removes the cloudy lenses and replaces them with artificial lenses. With the many advancements, this surgery has been an outpatient minimally invasive procedure.

• Laser Surgery: Laser eye surgeries (LASIK) use laser technologies and are performed on an outpatient basis. The vision problems are usually corrected and have quick recovery times.

• Laser Ablation Procedure: Endovenous laser treatments or radiofrequency ablation procedures are minimally invasive procedures that are employed to treat varicose veins.

• Dilation and Curettage: This is a gynecological treatment procedure that removes tissue from the uterus for treatment or diagnostic purposes.

• Biopsies: Breast biopsies or prostate biopsies are performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques that can be done in less than an hour.

Other minimally invasive outpatient procedures that are employed for enhancements of aesthetic appearance in individuals are listed below:

• Botox Treatments: Botox is a cosmetic nonsurgical procedure that reduces the appearance of wrinkles.

• Dermal Fillers: The procedure using dermal fillers is done on an outpatient basis. Hyaluronic acid-based products can be injected to target unwanted skin irregularities, restore the volume, and enhance facial contours. Cheek enhancements and lip augmentations are done using dermal fillers.

• Chemical Peels: The application of certain chemical solutions to improve and exfoliate the skin is done. Fine lines, damage to the skin due to sun exposure, and irregular pigmentation can be improved by chemical peels, which are done on an outpatient basis.

• Resurfacing of Laser Skin: They said technology is used to improve the appearance of a particular region by reducing scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation irregularities. This is the latest technology in improving the texture and pigmentation of the skin. This procedure is gentle and produces an acceptable outcome.

• Liposuction: Excess fat from specific areas of the body is removed by liposuction to promote body contouring. Laser liposuction procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis.

• Facelift (Nonsurgical): The skin is tightened by nonsurgical facelift procedures that include therapy or thread lifts.

• Microdermabrasion: This is a cosmetic procedure that exfoliates and removes the external layer of the skin to improve its appearance and texture.

• Sclerotherapist: Claro therapy is a procedure that is used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. The ways are made to collapse and fade by injecting a solution in it is typically done on an outpatient basis where the individual can return home on the same day of the procedure.

• Laser Procedures for Hair Removal: This procedure is a common cosmetic procedure that destroys the hair follicles and eliminates unwanted hair. It has been opted for by most individuals and can be performed on various regions of the body.

What Are the Benefits of Outpatient Minimally Invasive Surgeries?

Minimally invasive outpatient surgeries offer various surgical benefits to patients, such as the following.

• Faster recovery.

• The rate of infection risk is less.

• Convenient to every individual.

• Ensured safety and efficiency.

• Less traumatic procedure.

• Reduced hospital stay.

• Decreased intervention or disruption of daily activities.

• Reduced stress.

• Excellent patient satisfaction.

• Mostly cost effective.

Conclusion

The suitability of the procedure to be carried out on an outpatient basis is determined based on the type of surgery, the clinical condition of the patient during the surgery, and the post-recovery phase. Following the outpatient minimally invasive procedures, the journey extends beyond the boundaries of transformation and embraces speedy recovery, increasing the positive outlook of the individual. With every MIS, an individual can step into a future of not only enhancing the procedure outcome, efficiency, and appearance but also being a part of self-care and overall wellness.