Open and Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery - laparoscopy

Bariatric surgery may be performed through “open” approaches, which make abdominal incisions in the traditional manner, or by laparoscopy. With the laparoscopic approach, sophisticated instruments are inserted through 1/2-inch incisions and guided by a small camera that sends images to a television monitor. Most bariatric surgery today is performed laparoscopically because it requires a smaller cut, creates less tissue damage, leads to earlier discharges from the hospital, and has fewer complications, especially postoperative hernias.

However, not all patients are suitable for laparoscopy. Patients who are extremely obese, who have had previous abdominal surgery, or have complicating medical problems may require the open approach.