University Health System Blog

Dr. Shawn Tsuda answers the question: “What’s the difference between minimally invasive versus ‘open’ surgery? Is one approach safer or better than the other?”

Ever since the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed in 1986, many general surgical operations have transitioned to a minimally invasive approach because of less pain, shorter hospital stays, less infectious complications, and a quicker return to work.

The list of procedures continues to expand but include weight loss surgery, colon surgery, anti-reflux surgery, and removal of solid organs like the spleen.

In the right hands, a laparoscopic approach is as safe as surgery with a larger incision.

Reviewing guidelines by national bodies and societies such as the National Institutes of Health and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons can help a patient understand what procedures can be performed laparoscopically in a safe manner.

Shawn Tsuda, M.D. is vice chief for bariatric surgery at University Health System and the University of Nevada School of Medicine, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Tsuda completed his fellowship training in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at Harvard Medical School. He is board certified in general surgery.

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