Definition: Laparoscopic surgery is a type of surgery performed through several small incisions, rather than one (or more) large ones as in standard "open" surgery.
Laparoscopic surgery uses special long, thin surgical instruments that are placed through roughly 1-centimeter holes in the skin. These instruments include tiny cameras, lights, scissors, scalpels, and others.
Research shows that laparoscopic surgery may lead to shorter recovery times and less post-operative pain. However, there is no definitive evidence that the long-term rate of complications is lower with most types of laparoscopic surgery.
Sources:
Hu JC, Xiangmei G, Lipsitz SR, et al. Comparative Effectiveness of Minimally Invasive vs Open Radical Prostatectomy. JAMA. 2009;302(14):1557-1564.
Also Known As: laparoscopy
