The Center for Videoscopic & Laser Surgery
ABOUT LAPAROSCOPY
Why Laparoscopy?
Operative laparoscopic technique in surgery was first reported in the early 1980's. At this time it was utilized primarily for gynecological surgery, such as tubal ligations and appendectomy. Soon, the operation was dubbed "bandaid surgery" due to the small incisions and the fact that many of the diagnostic laparoscopy procedures could be done in overnight stay facilities rather than in a traditional hospital setting.
Dr. McKernan had experience as a 'primary care' general surgeon in that he was called on to perform gynecological surgeries in a small rural setting, as well as having to develop diagnostic skills in endoscopy, including colons and the stomach. This led to what seemed a logical progression for him towards questioning why the laparoscope couldn't be used for additional general surgery procedures.
What is Laparoscopy?
Lap-aro-scopic: A surgical method in which the abdominal cavity is accessed
through several small incisions, and surgery performed using a projected
image from the one-half inch diameter scope placed within the abdomen,
aided by other one-fourth inch entry ports which allow instrument insertion.
The abdomen wall is gently lifted by inflation using a non-toxic gas.