Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery easier on patients

AORN Journal,  August, 2004  

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Hand-assisted laparoscopic colon surgery can provide the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to patients for whom open surgery was once the only option, according to an April 5, 2004, news release from Saint Luke's Health System, Kansas City, Mo. A ring-like device allows a surgeon to insert his or her hand into a 3-inch to 4-inch incision to guide laparoscopic instruments. Two additional, smaller incisions are made for insertion of the laparoscopic instruments and miniature camera. The surgeon guides the instruments with his or her other hand, which is outside the patient's body.

Surgeons are able to experience the same feel and maneuverability they experience with open surgery but do not have to make the 8-inch to 16-inch abdominal incision that usually is necessary for open surgery. Patients experience a shorter hospital length of stay and can return to work and normal activities more quickly than if they had undergone traditional surgery--typically, within one week compared to six to eight weeks after traditional surgery.

Hand-Assisted Laparoscopy Proves Successful in Colon Disease Patients (news release, Kansas City, Mo: St Luke's Health System, April 5, 2004) https://www.saintlukes healthsystem.org/slhs/com/media/Hand%20assisted% 20laparoscopy.htm (accessed 24 May 2004).

COPYRIGHT 2004 Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc.
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