Virtually Scarless Surgery

Stories of Patient Power, by Andrew Schorr

Laparoscopic surgery, commonly referred to as minimally invasive surgery, offers patients less pain, shorter hospital stays, and shorter recoveries after surgery. The advantages of these new technologies are intriguing patients around the country. World expert, Dr. Mark Talamini, joins Andrew Schorr on this Patient Power program to share why patients should be excited and what the future holds for "scarless surgeries." Dr. Talamini is Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery at UC San Diego Health System, which has helped lead the way in virtually scarless abdominal surgery. In 2008, Dr. Talamini and his surgical team made medical history by being the first in the country to remove a diseased appendix through a natural orifice.

The program begins with the story of Linda Qau, a patient who underwent laparoscopic surgery for the removal of her gall bladder. Linda talks about her surgery, her very short hospital stay and her rapid recovery. You’ll hear why she chose this surgery and how she’s doing now.

Dr. Talamini helps us understand minimally invasive surgical procedures, and discusses new procedures currently in clinical trials and what conditions these surgeries are most appropriate for. He details the NOTES Gallbladder Procedure, a new procedure for gallbladder removal. In addition to an explanation of research in progress, Dr. Talamini provides answers to listener questions on a variety of issues. If you’re curious about "scarless surgeries" and the future of surgical technologies, this program is a great educational tool.

Read Linda Qua's laproscopic surgery story

This 30-Minute Program Features:

• Mark Talamini, M.D.
  Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery
  University of California San Diego Health System
  Dr. Talamini is Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery at University of California, San Diego Health System. He is a pioneer in minimally invasive abdominal surgery. Dr. Talamini is regarded as a highly respected surgeon, researcher, teacher and is recognized as one of the leading authorities on laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery in the United States. In his clinics and surgeries at UCSD, he specializes in gastrointestinal surgery, with a particular emphasis on the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and the use of minimally invasive technology to minimize pain and scarring. Dr. Talamini is also President of The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), the largest professional organization of gastrointestinal surgeons in the United States.
• Linda Qua
  Patient who underwent Laparoscopic Surgery
  In April 2008, Linda had a gallbladder attack, so severe, EMTs were called to her residence. To make matters worse, at the time she was unaware of the source of pain. After following up with her primary physician and receiving an ultra sound, Linda was told she had gallstones. She discussed surgery options with her doctor and within weeks, had her gallbladder removed via vaginal opening. In this webcast, you'll hear more about Linda's surgery, the interest it has generated from doctors around the country and her excitement over the speedy recovery.

Listen to the Audio Program (you will be taken to the Patient Power website)

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