WHAT IS KEYHOLE SURGERY?

Keyhole surgery, also known as laparoscopic surgery, allows the surgeon to operate through several small incisions rather than one large cut. A specialised high-definition camera, called a laparoscope, is used to view the internal organs on a screen. Fine surgical instruments are then passed through small ports, allowing the operation to be performed carefully and precisely.

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WHAT IS IT USED FOR?

Keyhole surgery is commonly used for gallbladder removal, also known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It is also commonly used for inguinal hernia repair with faster recovery and lesser incidence of chronic nerve pain. Keyhole techniques is also used for various other conditions such as appendicitis and to inspect the abdominal or pelvic organs.

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WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?

The main advantages of keyhole surgery are smaller wounds, less scarring, faster recovery and, in many cases, less pain after surgery. These benefits are particularly noticeable after gallbladder surgery and inguinal hernia surgery.

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Peter Chin performs keyhole surgery at private practice Grace Hospital in Tauranga.