Basic HTML Version
6
GEORGETOWN HOSPITAL SYSTEM
Gallbladder removal
Q
A family member who lives in another state recently had her
gallbladder removed. She has only one small incision and you
can’t even see it because it is in her belly button. I have been told I need
to have my gallbladder removed. Is that procedure available here?
A
Yes!
The technique you describe is an advanced laparoscopic surgical
procedure that uses a single small incision (through the navel) for
cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal. I am the first surgeon in
the area to complete training necessary to use this technique. I have
performed more than 55 cholecystectomies and other surgeries using the
single-incision technique.
Laparoscopic, or minimally invasive, surgical removal of the
gallbladder is not new, but the single-incision technique is. Traditional
laparoscopic cholecystectomy requires four 1- to 2-centimeter incisions.
The single-incision technique, which also can be used for conditions
including hernia repair, appendectomy and colon surgery, has a number
of important patient benefits. Pain is minimized, recovery is faster and
typically the single scar is not visible, since it is concealed within the
navel. This allows patients to return quickly to normal activities and enjoy
the cosmetic benefit of having no permanent, noticeable abdominal
scarring. Typically, the procedure is done on an outpatient basis, allowing
the patient to go home the same day as surgery.
Most patients who qualify for traditional laparoscopic gallbladder
surgery are also candidates for the new single-incision procedure.
To find out if the new single-incision laparoscopic gallbladder surgery
is right for you, ask your primary care provider to refer you to our practice
or call our office at
843-652-8390
. Surgical Specialists of Waccamaw is
located in WachesawMedical Center, 4367 Riverwood Drive in Murrells
Inlet, across fromWaccamaw Community Hospital.
◂
MORE
.
INFO
The single-incision technique uses only one incision, in the navel, which leaves no
visible scar.
MATTHEW J. METZ, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon who practices
with Surgical Specialists of Waccamaw and performs surgery at Waccamaw Com-
munity Hospital in Murrells Inlet and Georgetown Memorial Hospital in Georgetown.
He completed medical school at West Virginia University and residency training at
West Virginia University–Charleston Area Medical Center. In addition to expertise
in single-incision surgery, he treats patients with vascular and venous diseases and
chronic wounds. To schedule an appointment, call 843-652-8390.
Traditional laparoscopic gallbladder removal requires four incisions.
Expert
Advice from
Matthew J. Metz,
MD, FACS
ask the