New Delhi: Kidney-related health problems are a growing concern, with chronic kidney disease (CKD) affecting approximately 17% of the population in India, according to the International Society of Nephrology’s Kidney Disease Data Center Study. Surgery often becomes necessary to treat these conditions like kidney stones, tumours, or severe kidney damage. Traditionally, these surgeries involved large incisions and lengthy recovery times. However, modern medicine has introduced a much less invasive option, which is laparoscopic surgery.
While talking about renal care, Dr. Gagandeep Talwar, Consultant, Urology, Renal Care, Medanta, Gurugram, explained how minimally invasive surgery can help kidney disease patients.
Understanding Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally Invasive Surgery often called keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure. Instead of making a large cut to access the kidney, surgeons make a few small incisions. Through these, they insert a tiny camera called an endoscope and surgical instruments. The camera projects a detailed, magnified view of the inside of the body onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to operate with precision. This method is widely used in kidney care for procedures like:
- Prostatectomy: Removal of the prostate for both cancerous and noncancerous growths.
- Nephrectomy: Surgical removal of a kidney, either partially or completely.
- Kidney Stone Removal: A procedure to remove kidney stones, particularly large or complex ones.
- Partial Nephrectomy: Surgical removal of a portion of a kidney, often to remove a tumour while preserving healthy kidney tissue.
- Pyeloplasty: A surgical procedure to repair a blockage in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder.
Why Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Surgery offers significant advantages over traditional open surgery for kidney procedures. It involves smaller incisions, leading to less blood loss, a lower risk of infection, and a reduced need for blood transfusions, making it safer for patients with underlying conditions. Recovery is quicker, with less pain and shorter hospital stays. Patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, compared to 6-8 weeks for traditional methods, reducing overall medical costs. For kidney tumours, Minimally Invasive Surgery preserves healthy tissue by targeting only the affected area, which is critical for patients with a single kidney or chronic kidney disease risk.
Advancements in Minimally Invasive Surgery
Here are some key technological advancements that have significantly improved patient outcomes:
- Robotic Surgery: Robotic systems, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, enable surgeons to perform complex surgeries with improved precision and control. These systems provide a 3D view of the internal anatomy, while multi-jointed robotic instruments offer a greater range of motion, making intricate procedures more convenient.
- 3D and High-Definition Imaging: 3D and high-definition imaging have significantly improved the precision and accuracy of laparoscopic surgery. By providing a three-dimensional view of the surgical area, it allows surgeons to perceive depth and spatial relationships more accurately.
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI): With the help of Augmented Reality (AR), surgeons can see detailed anatomical information overlaid directly onto their view of the patient. This real-time guidance helps them make precise decisions during the surgery. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) can analyse information collected during the operation to help surgeons make better decisions and improve patient outcomes.
- Miniaturised Instruments: Smaller, more refined surgical tools allow for delicate procedures through tiny incisions. These instruments minimise damage to surrounding tissues and promote faster recovery.
Minimally Invasive Surgery has revolutionised kidney care with its safer, less invasive approach and faster recovery. Advancements like robotic systems and high-definition imaging continue to improve precision and outcomes. As the field continues to evolve, the future of renal care looks brighter than ever.
Minimally Invasive Surgery has revolutionised kidney care with its safer, less invasive approach and faster recovery. Advancements like robotic systems and high-definition imaging continue to improve precision and outcomes. As the field continues to evolve, the future of renal care looks brighter than ever. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
