Pediatric Laparoscopic Surgery

May 20, 2011

Laparoscopy (pronounced lap-a-ross-coe-pee) is a surgical procedure commonly used in pediatric patients due to the limited operating space in comparison to fully grown adults. This procedure utilizes thin, fine instruments inserted through small incisions. In addition, a camera is inserted that provides the surgeon with a clear view of the interior of the patient’s abdominal cavity via a digital monitor. This laparoscope uses lenses, similar to those on a telescope, to magnify the structures and organs within the body while providing bright illumination to the working space.

Pediatric Laparoscopic Surgery – Minimally Invasive with a Massive Impact

While this type of surgery is referred to as minimally invasive surgery due to the small incisions used during the procedure, there are major procedures performed on pediatric patients as well as adults using laparoscopic surgery. The term actually refers to minimally invasive procedures performed on the abdomen. The name changes depending on the location. For example, for the chest wall the procedure is known as thoracoscopic. For the joints it’s arthroscopy and for any procedure performed through a natural opening like the mouth or nose it’s called endoscopy.

Many procedures once commonly performed through open surgery – a large cut in the abdomen – can now be performed using these small incisions and laparoscopy. For some procedures such as bowel resection, and the treatment of gallbladder disease, laparoscopy is the preferred surgical technique.

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