» Schmidt Performs Single Incision Laparoscopic Colon Resection Surgery

Schmidt Performs Single Incision Laparoscopic Colon Resection Surgery

David Schmidt, MD is one of a few surgeons in the state to successfully perform a left colon SILS. “Adapting and advancing the SILS technique to remove the colon cancer in an identical surgical technique avoids the large intra-abdominal incision and provides a much easier recovery,” said Dr. Schmidt.

The surgery took place at Gwinnett Medical Center.

This surgical advancement reduces scarring, facilitates healing and may reduce infection rates in the colon, which is prone to infection given the large amount of bacteria and waste products in the bowel.

According to healthcare researchers from Hospital Review, proliferation of single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is listed as one of the top five medtech trends of 2009 and is quickly becoming the procedure method of choice.

Traditionally, surgeons use a scalpel that cuts about an 8 inch incision across the abdomen. The new single incision technique requires no more than 2 cm. right under the bellybutton.

“The patient came in with colon cancer. He was able to use the SILS technique to remove the cancer through a 2 cm incision through her bellybutton,” said Debbie Walker, RNFA.

The patient benefits of a single incision procedure include no scarring, faster recovery time and much less pain. Doctors even say that patients aren’t using the pain medications prescribed to them because they are recovering at a much faster speed than anticipated.

“The quicker we can get our patients moving, the faster the recovery time is for them. This decreases post-operative complications which lead to a decrease in the overall length of their stay,” says Nancy Stockwell, RN and clinical manager for GMC. “Technology makes a significant impact on the quality of care GMC provides. Simply put, the minimally invasive technique is a highly effective surgical option we can now offer to our community.”