Difference between Laparoscopy and Laser Surgery
Laser Surgery or Laparoscopy? Know the Pros and Cons
The contribution of technology is undeniable in the world of surgery and healthcare. A technological transformation has happened so fast that it is beyond comprehension. Both laparoscopic surgery and laser surgery are significant parts of this transformation.
Laparoscopy, or laparoscopic surgery, is widely used to cure various ailments with minimal incisions. It ensures faster healing, reduced postoperative discomfort, and improved outcomes. In contrast, in laser surgery, a light beam is used instead of surgical instruments.
Laparoscopy vs. Laser Surgery: Key Differences
The following table provides you with a list of differences between laparoscopy and laser surgery:
| Parameters | Laparoscopy | Laser Surgery |
Why is it used
| Laparoscopy treats conditions like appendicitis, endometriosis, biopsies, Hernia repair surgeries, gastric bypass surgery, etc. | Laser surgery treats Glaucoma, Sciatica, removes Kidney stones, and destroys tumour cells. Plus, experts use lasers for skin tightening, prostate enlargement, etc. |
| Instruments Used | Long, pencil-like instruments made of high-quality stainless steel that are easy to insert through small incisions. | Light beams are used that get absorbed by the chromophores of the skin. Different types of lasers are used for different purposes. |
Benefits
| In laparoscopic surgery, the scars are small and heal faster, so the patient needs to stay at the hospital for fewer days.
This type of surgery requires less tissue cutting.
In addition, reduction of the exposure to other internal organs decreases the chances of infection. | In laser surgery, both cutting and sealing are done using a laser beam. This ensures that bleeding is minimal.
There is no or very little amount of no pain and swelling involved post-operation. Laser procedures (e.g., CO₂ laser resurfacing) sometimes can cause significant discomfort, requiring analgesics.
Laser beams are efficient in destroying infection-causing bacteria. |
| Limitations | There are possibilities of allergic reactions from the anaesthesia, probabilities of blood clots, infection and problems with adhesion. | There are possibilities of flap complications during eye surgeries like LASIK. Furthermore, there are chances of burns, dyspigmentation, and scarring. |
What is laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, is a pioneering approach that empowers healthcare professionals to undertake delicate medical procedures through smaller incisions.
First, the surgeon inserts a thin rod with a camera, called a laparoscope, to gain clear visual access to organ cavities. Using the laparoscope, the surgeon observes the organ in real time and operates.
What is laser surgery?
LASER, or Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, is a type of surgery that uses laser beams instead of medical instruments to cut, vapourise, and coagulate body tissues.
For example, carbon dioxide (CO₂) lasers remove the outer layer of the skin without affecting deeper layers, laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy heats a particular part of the body, etc.
How to Take Care After Laparoscopic Surgery?
After laparoscopic surgery, health experts recommend that patients keep the operated area clean and dry and avoid drinking alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours. Even though the patients can remove the bandage after a day or within 2 to 3 days, the glue or the adhesive should not be removed. Patients need to wait for it to fall off automatically.
How to Take Care After Laser Surgery?
The aftercare of laser surgery depends on where the patient has had the surgery. Since light sensitivity varies from person to person, doctors suggest avoiding driving or any other significant activities immediately. Furthermore, doctors suggest not touching or rubbing the operated area.
Laparoscopy and laser surgery are comparatively new procedures in the world of medical science and have promising futures. People prefer these surgeries compared to traditional methods because of the lower probability of complications and faster healing.
However, following up constantly with healthcare professionals is necessary so that, in case of complications, they can intervene immediately.
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