Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery in Delhi

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including malignancies of the oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, and colorectum, account for a substantial global health burden.

As medical science progresses, advanced cancer surgery options have improved survival rates and recovery outcomes.

At BLK Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, laparoscopic GI cancer surgery is performed under the care of Dr Deep Goel, a senior gastrointestinal surgeon and surgical oncologist with extensive experience in advanced laparoscopic and minimally invasive cancer procedures. This approach aims to reduce post-operative pain, shorten hospital stay, and support faster recovery.

Dr. Deep Goel, a surgical gastroenterologist with expertise in laparoscopic procedures, emphasises, “Patients diagnosed with GI cancers should discuss minimally invasive options with their surgical team. Laparoscopic procedures can reduce postoperative pain, accelerate healing, and help patients return to their normal activities sooner.”

This blog provides information about laparoscopic surgery, a technique that has transformed GI cancer care by offering patients a safer, faster, and more efficient path to recovery.

What is Laparoscopic Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer?

Laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive surgery for cancer that uses small incisions instead of large, open cuts. 

During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light) through small incisions. The camera provides a magnified, high-definition view of the internal organs, enabling the surgeon to perform precise surgeries with specialised instruments.

What is the Difference Between Laparoscopic Surgery and Traditional Surgery?

The following table compares laparoscopic surgery vs traditional surgery for cancer treatment:

What are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery?

1. Minimally invasive

Laparoscopic surgery involves small incisions, resulting in reduced trauma to the body, less postoperative pain, and faster wound healing.

2. Lower risk of complications

Smaller incisions translate into a lower risk of complications such as infections, excessive bleeding, and wound reopening.

4. Improved cosmetic outcomes

Minimal scarring in laparoscopic surgery can positively impact a patient’s psychological well-being, especially for those undergoing procedures in visible areas of the body.

5. Increased surgical precision

Laparoscopic surgery provides a high-resolution view of the surgical site, allowing surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater accuracy. 

“I had been living with chronic gastrointestinal issues that significantly affected my quality of life. After consulting with Dr. Deep Goel, I underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure that resolved my problems. Dr. Goel’s expertise in minimally invasive surgery and dedication to his patients are commendable. I am grateful for his care,” says Muskan Arora, a happy patient of Dr. Deep.

Which Laparoscopic Surgeries Are Available for GI Cancer Treatment?

Many laparoscopic procedures are available for treating GI cancers, depending on the affected organ. 

• Laparoscopic colectomy is performed for colorectal cancer, ensuring precise tumour removal with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. 
• Laparoscopic gastrectomy is used for stomach cancer, allowing for partial or total removal of the stomach with enhanced recovery benefits. 
• Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) is performed on patients with pancreatic cancer in select cases. 
• Laparoscopic liver resection is an effective approach for removing tumours in the liver while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. 

These minimally invasive techniques offer improved outcomes, reduced complications, and faster recovery time after laparoscopic surgery.

What Can You Expect Before, During, and After Laparoscopic Surgery?

• Pre-surgical preparations

1. • Medical evaluation, imaging tests, and consultations to check the patient’s suitability for laparoscopic surgery.
   • Instructions regarding fasting and medication adjustments.

• During the procedure

1. • Administration of general anaesthesia.
   • Small incisions to insert the laparoscope and surgical instruments.
   • Real-time visualisation of the surgical site on a monitor to guide tumour removal.

• After the surgery

1. • Monitoring for vital signs and pain management.
   • Early movement to alleviate the risk of blood clots.
   • Instructions for wound care, activity limitations, and follow-up appointments.

“Laparoscopic surgery is not just about smaller scars; it also means a quicker return to adjuvant therapies like chemotherapy. This can make a difference in the overall cancer treatment journey,” says Dr. Deep Goel.

What are the Risks Associated With Laparoscopic Surgery for Cancer?

Here are some potential risks of laparoscopic surgery:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Organ injury
• Gas embolism
• Anaesthesia risks
• Blood clots
• Hernia formation
• Conversion to open surgery (if complications arise)

A patient of Dr. Deep, who underwent laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer, shares her experience, “Dr. Deep suggested laparoscopic surgery, and I’m glad I went with it. My recovery was faster than I had expected. Within a few weeks, I was back on my feet. I can’t thank Dr. Goel and his team enough for their skill and care.”

What is the Standard Cost of Laparoscopic Surgery in India?

The standard cost of laparoscopic surgery in India ranges from INR 3,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 (USD 3,500 to USD 6,000 for international patients). This cost varies according to the type of gastrointestinal cancer, hospital facilities, location, and the surgeon’s expertise. Additional expenses, such as diagnostic tests, hospital stays, and post-surgical care, can also affect the total cost.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic surgery has helped gastrointestinal cancer treatment by offering a safer, faster, and more efficient alternative to traditional open surgery. As research continues, integrating artificial intelligence and augmented reality into laparoscopic procedures may further improve outcomes by providing real-time guidance and predictive analytics.