The small intestine has a key role in the digestive system and is the place where most nutrients from food are broken down and absorbed. Any condition that causes damage, disease or obstruction of the small intestine may lead to surgical necessity. Such conditions include:
Though each of these conditions has its own symptoms, many conditions of the small bowel are accompanied by symptoms like:
Unfortunately, the prevalence of these symptoms in other diseases makes it difficult to diagnose many small bowel disorders. To pinpoint the root of your intestinal issues, an in-depth examination of your medical history and physical well-being will be conducted. This may include diagnostic procedures like:
Our surgeons are specialized in minimally invasive laparoscopic methods of surgery. This means that, when possible, all surgeries are performed with a surgical scope that allows for completion of the operation through minor incisions. Because no major abdominal incision is made, laparoscopic surgery reduces post-operative recovery time and risk of complications.
Small bowel surgery is performed using general anesthesia. This means that you will be asleep and incapable of feeling pain for the duration of the procedure.
During laparoscopic small bowel surgery, your surgeon will pass a camera and medical instruments through tiny incisions in the abdominal wall. A two to three inch incision may also be needed to remove the diseased segment of the intestine. Your belly will be expanded with gas to allow your surgeon to observe and perform the operation more easily.
Once the diseased portion of the bowel has been removed, your surgeon will either:
