Minimally invasive surgery

Laparoscopic and robotic techniques that use small incisions: how they compare with open surgery.

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What it is

Minimally invasive surgery uses a few small incisions and a camera (laparoscopy), sometimes with robotic assistance, instead of one large open incision. It is used for many abdominal operations, such as hernia repair, hiatal hernia repair, anti-reflux surgery, gallbladder removal and weight-loss surgery.

Who may qualify

Most people are candidates for at least some minimally invasive options, but not all. Prior abdominal surgery, certain anatomy, severe illness or a complicated problem may call for an open operation, and a surgeon may switch to open surgery during an operation for safety.

What recovery can look like

Compared with open surgery, minimally invasive approaches usually mean less pain, smaller scars, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to normal activity, though this varies with the operation and the person.

Risks to understand

Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs or blood vessels, anesthesia risks and the possibility of converting to open surgery. Results vary and nothing is guaranteed.

Insurance and questions to ask

Ask which approach your surgeon recommends and why, how often they perform it, what the plan is if conversion to open surgery is needed and whether your insurance requires prior authorization.

Informational website. It is not a medical practice, does not name or imply any particular doctor, and does not give medical advice. Using it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Content is general education only; talk to a licensed physician about your own care. Last reviewed: November 2026.