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Frequent Questions

 
I. Digestive Surgery
I. Digestive Surgery
1. Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery
Most patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery (MIS). While in the early years of MIS, there were many contra-indications for this approach, today with our increased experience in this field, majority of elective operations of digestive system can be attempted either laparoscopically or robotically. Surgeons specializing in minimally invasive surgery tend to have a higher success rate with this approach and a lower incidence of conversion to open surgery during the procedure.
2. What are the different types of minimally invasive surgery?
Broadly speaking, there are two main types of minimally invasive surgery: Laparoscopic and Robotic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is the more common approach, with applications across a broad array of procedures. Robotic surgery has gained popularity among digestive surgeons since 2015, when improvements in robotic technology offered new capabilities for complex procedures. Both options are generally superior to open surgery with regards to post-operative pain and patient recovery. Each offers specific advantages and should be utilized selectively.
3. What are some factors that determine whether minimally invasive surgery is performed laparoscopically or robotically?
Factors that determine the approach include the specific nature of the procedure, patient characteristics, surgeon training, facility equipment, etc. Dr. Zaré believes the ideal approach for each procedure is the safest and the least invasive approach. For the more complex procedures in our practice like minimally invasive colon resection or para-esophageal hernia repair, robotic surgery has advantages over laparoscopic surgery and is our preferred approach. However, for many other procedures, laparoscopic approach is our preferred approach. For example, in Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, due the unique need for maximal staple line strength and integrity, laparoscopic surgery with patented Tristapler technology offers superior results. For inguinal hernia repair, totally extra-peritoneal tension-free repair is the gold standard and the safest approach, and since this approach can only be performed laparoscopically, that is our favored approach. For procedures with relatively low complexity such as removal of gallbladder, laparoscopic surgery is generally preferred, as robotic surgery may not offer tangible advantages.
4. How long does it take to perform laparoscopic surgery?
Depending on the nature of surgery, your operation may take between 30 minutes to few hours. 
5. How long is the hospital stay?
Depending on the type of surgery, you may be discharged home on the day of surgery (e.g., gallbladder surgery), or the next day (e.g., Hiatal hernia repair, Fundoplication, Heller Myotomy, surgery on the stomach, etc). Sometimes, patients spend 2-3 nights (e.g., colon surgery) to resume bowel function before discharge. In general, hospital stay for laparoscopic surgery is significantly shorter than the stay for open surgery.
6. Can I drive myself home after surgery?
No. Because of anesthetic drugs and pain medications, you will not be able to drive immediately after surgery. A responsible adult will need to accompany you home.
7. What is the typical recovery time after surgery?
For most laparoscopic gastrointestinal operations, on the day of surgery you are able to return to normal daily activities such as getting in and out of the bed, walking, going to the bathroom, climbing stairs, etc. Within one week, you are usually able to return to work. In general, during the first 2-3 weeks after surgery on the digestive system, you may resume mild to moderate activities like jogging, but you are advised to avoid strenuous activities and lifting more than 20 lbs. After that, you may resume more strenuous activities.
8. Can I shower or bathe after surgery?
Since your incisions will be covered by surgical glue, you may resume showering immediately after surgery. Bathing may be resumed after 3 weeks.
9. Will I have bandages after surgery?
No. You will have surgical glue on the skin. The glue will stay for 2-3 weeks, after which it will start peeling off. At that time, the glue may be removed manually. Underneath the skin, incisions will have sutures, which will be absorbed automatically. You will not need to have sutures removed after surgery.