Minimally Invasive Surgery: Laparoscopy and Thoracoscopy

With traditional, open pediatric surgery, the surgeon operates through one large incision. Pediatric minimally invasive surgery is an advanced approach that uses a series of smaller incisions. The surgeon uses tiny video cameras and tools to see the surgical site and complete the procedure. This approach offers many benefits, including:

• Excellent results
• Faster recovery time
• Reduced hospitalization rates
• Smaller scars

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine pediatric surgeons have extensive experience with the full suite of pediatric surgeries. They opt for minimally invasive procedures whenever possible. This ensures your child has an excellent outcome and a positive experience.

Conditions We Treat

Pediatric surgeons use minimally invasive approaches for nearly all types of interventions. Pediatric conditions that benefit from minimally invasive surgery include:

• Bariatric surgery for adolescents
• Congenital conditions (health issues present at birth)
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Hernias
• Lung conditions
• Traumatic injuries
• Various cancers
• Vascular conditions

Treatment Options

Based on your child’s needs, the pediatric surgeon may use a minimally invasive surgery technique. Types of minimally invasive surgery offered by Weill Cornell Medicine pediatric surgeons include laparoscopy, thoracoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery.

Pediatric Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is useful if your child requires abdominal surgery. During laparoscopic surgery, the pediatric surgeon makes a few small incisions, typically near the belly button. 

The surgeon then inserts a thin, flexible tube called a laparoscope through one incision. A tiny camera at the end of the laparoscope provides an inside view past your child’s abdominal wall. The surgeon watches this video feed in real-time to guide instruments to the area of concern.

While guided by the real-time video, the surgeon may remove tissue samples or treat abdominal conditions.

Pediatric Thoracoscopy

Like laparoscopy, pediatric thoracoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube equipped with a tiny video camera. Called a thoracoscope, the tube helps surgeons see inside the chest. 

Your child’s care team uses thoracoscopic procedures for the following:

• Examine suspicious areas found in other tests
• Remove fluid buildup around the lungs
• Treat diseases in the lung or esophagus

Pediatric Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery uses many of the same tools as other minimally invasive techniques. It relies upon real-time video guidance and very small surgical instruments. However, the surgeon does not physically touch the patient.

During robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon sits at a console nearby. There, the surgeon uses joysticks to control the movements of a specialized robot. When the surgeon moves a joystick, the robotic arms respond immediately. 

By using the robot, the surgeon enjoys increased range of motion and precision. Weill Cornell Medicine is home to some of the country’s most experienced physicians in pediatric robotic surgery.

What to Expect

Prior to pediatric minimally invasive surgery, your child may need to fast and stop certain medications. Speak with your child’s surgeon for specific instructions and follow them as directed.

Immediately before surgery, your child will receive anesthesia. This helps your child relax during the procedure and not experience pain. With general anesthesia, your child remains unconscious throughout the procedure. 

After surgery, the care team moves your child to a recovery room. Your child may remain hospitalized for a day or longer. Your child begins walking soon after surgery, and the care team discharges your child when appropriate.

The surgeon may schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the surgical site heals properly and to answer any questions about ongoing care.

Make an Appointment

Could your child benefit from the services of a minimally invasive pediatric surgeon? Fill out this form to request an appointment. Our staff will connect you with a surgeon who meets your child’s unique needs.

Pediatric surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine who use minimally invasive surgical techniques include: