What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery is a technique where a scope is passed into the body through a small incision. Using this scope and instruments passed through other small incisions, operations are performed that traditionally have required much larger incisions. Because of the smaller incisions, laparoscopic surgery is less traumatic and is associated with a quicker recovery. The use of scopes to look into the abdomen predates even the invention of the light bulb! It has only been in the last decade however that technical improvements have allowed for the performance of complex operations.

What Procedures Can be Done Using Laparoscopy?
Gallbladder removal was one of the first and remains the most commonly performed laparoscopic procedure. Other procedures include surgery for heartburn or reflux, anti-ulcer surgery, hernia repair, removal of the appendix, spleen, adrenal glands and parts of the intestine. The LAP-BAND® procedure to treat obesity also is done laparoscopically. The determination of whether your problem can be best managed using this technique is dependent upon a variety of factors including the nature of your problem, your medical and surgical history.

How Long Will I be Hospitalized After Laparoscopic Surgery?
Lap-band, Gallbladder and hernia surgery are outpatient procedures in most cases. Heartburn or reflux surgery, and splenectomy sometimes requires an overnight hospitalization. Laparoscopic intestinal resection generally requires a 1-3 day hospitalization. The duration of hospitalization and recovery is impacted by a variety of factors including your general health and the nature of your problem.

When Can I Return to Work?
Because there is less trauma to the abdominal wall from the smaller incisions, there is considerably less discomfort and less chance that activity such as lifting will cause damage. General guidelines suggest that you may return to work when you can comfortably perform your required activities. In most cases, this takes 7-14 days depending upon the type of work you do. This should be discussed with Dr. Fusco and will be modified by your general baseline health and nature of your surgical problem.

Will My Health Insurance Cover Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic procedures are now well established medical care that is covered by most insurance carriers (Lap-band surgery for obesity excepted). Prior to any elective surgical procedures our office will precertify the surgery with your insurance carrier when required. They also will determine your coverage so that you will have an estimate of your personal financial responsibility prior to procedure. Any questions regarding health insurance coverage of specific procedures can be addressed to Margery Beck. Margery can be reached at 321-725-4500 ext 420 or by E-mail.