The term “minimally invasive surgery” isn’t a single procedure. Instead, it describes surgical techniques that allow your doctor to perform even complex operations with smaller incisions. This offers numerous advantages over traditional techniques that require one large incision to access the treatment area.
As an orthopaedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in the field, Thomas F. Saylor, MD, has extensive skill with both minimally invasive and traditional surgical approaches.
Whenever possible, Dr. Saylor relies on minimally invasive approaches with specialized tools at Orthopaedic Care Specialists in North Palm Beach, Florida. Here’s what you should know about these procedures and how they differ from traditional “open” techniques.
As we mentioned above, there are many kinds of minimally invasive surgeries, including those that are performed with robotic technology. However, they share a common goal: performing a surgical procedure that limits the size and quantity of incisions made in the body.
In the past, surgery meant a large cut to expose the entire internal area a surgeon needed to access to operate. Advancements in tools, techniques, and technology have changed that need. While some procedures still require a traditional approach, surgeons can now perform many — even those that are complex in nature — with minimally invasive methods.
Minimally invasive surgery involves specialized tools, tiny lights, and miniature cameras. Instead of one large, open incision to reach the treatment site, surgeons insert advanced equipment into smaller incisions.
The result? A surgeon can now access and treat issues inside the body without the need for a large incision.
The ability to perform surgery through smaller incisions may not seem significant. However, these techniques come with numerous benefits, such as:
On top of being considered generally safer than open surgeries, minimally invasive procedures also come with faster recovery times and less need for pain medication. Studies also show that they could dramatically reduce health care costs.
Dr. Saylor has the advanced training required to perform numerous minimally invasive surgeries. These approaches can address multiple issues, including joint and connective tissue problems in the elbow, shoulder, hand, and wrist.
Conditions often treated with minimally invasive surgical techniques include:
Dr. Saylor can also use minimally invasive techniques to remove cysts or other tissues in the body, such as cartilage from a damaged joint.
The easiest way to determine if a minimally invasive technique can correct your issue involves a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Saylor so he can assess your condition.
Do you need an orthopaedic procedure? To see if minimally invasive surgery could help you, call 561-260-5993 to book an appointment with Orthopaedic Care Specialists today.
