What is Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery, also known as laparoscopic surgery is one such innovation that has transformed modern medicine. Keyhole surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique where the surgeon operates by making small incisions and using a tiny camera (laparoscope) and specialized surgical tools. The camera projects images onto a monitor, guiding the surgeon with precision.
Unlike traditional open surgery, keyhole surgery offers several advantages such as reduced blood loss and tissue damage, and a high success rate with almost 95%+ success rate under experienced surgical hands. Also, due to its reduced downtime and cosmetic appeal, keyhole surgery is a popular choice among patients.
What Are The Different Types of Keyhole Surgeries?
Keyhole surgery is used across several medical specialities. Here are some common types performed in Gurgaon:
Keyhole Surgery for Hernia
Keyhole surgery for hernia repair involves fixing a weakened spot in the abdominal wall through small incisions using a laparoscope and surgical tools. The surgeon pushes the herniated tissue back into place and reinforces the area with a mesh.
This minimally invasive approach is especially beneficial for treating recurrent or bilateral hernias. It offers less postoperative pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Keyhole Surgery For Appendix Removal (Laparoscopic Appendectomy)
This type of keyhole surgery is used to remove an inflamed appendix, typically caused by appendicitis. The surgeon makes three small incisions in the abdomen to insert a camera and instruments.
The appendix is safely removed without opening the abdomen completely. Patients benefit from shorter hospital stays, lower infection risks, and a quick return to normal activities, often within a few days.
Keyhole Surgery For Gallbladder Removal (Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy)
Keyhole surgery for gallbladder stone removal, medically known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is the most common and effective treatment for gallbladder stones that cause pain, infection, or inflammation. In this procedure, the surgeon makes 3–4 small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope and surgical tools.
This minimally invasive approach offers significant benefits over open surgery, including shorter hospital stays, less postoperative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities.
Keyhole Surgery Knee (Arthroscopy)
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems like ligament injuries, torn cartilage, and chronic knee pain. Small incisions are made around the knee to allow the insertion of a camera and instruments. This method is popular among athletes and active individuals, as it causes minimal damage to surrounding tissues and allows for a faster return to mobility and sports.
Keyhole Surgery for Kidney Stones
Keyhole surgery for kidney stones, often called laparoscopic pyelolithotomy, is performed when stones are too large or inaccessible for non-invasive treatments like lithotripsy. Through small incisions in the abdomen or back, the surgeon removes the stones using a camera-guided approach. This surgery offers high precision, minimal scarring, and a shorter recovery period compared to open kidney stone surgery.
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What Conditions Are Treated Using Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery has revolutionised the treatment of several conditions across general surgery, urology, orthopaedics, and gynaecology. It offers a safer, faster, and more cosmetically favourable alternative to traditional open surgeries. Below are some of the most common medical conditions that are effectively treated using keyhole techniques:
Hernias occur when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding connective tissue, commonly in the abdominal or groin area. Keyhole surgery for hernia is widely used for treating inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias. It involves inserting a laparoscope to repair the defect using mesh reinforcement. This method offers minimal pain, low recurrence, and faster recovery.
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, often presenting as sudden, sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. When untreated, it can lead to rupture, causing life-threatening infections. Keyhole surgery appendix removal (laparoscopic appendectomy) is the preferred approach for treating both acute and early perforated appendicitis. It allows for quicker healing, less scarring, and minimal hospital stay.
Gallstones can block bile ducts, leading to intense abdominal pain, nausea, and infection. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard treatment for gallstone disease. This keyhole surgery removes the gallbladder through small incisions, reducing complications and ensuring rapid recovery. It is particularly suitable for symptomatic gallstones that cannot be managed with medication or diet.
When kidney stones are too large to pass naturally or cannot be treated with non-surgical methods like lithotripsy, keyhole surgery for kidney stones is recommended. The procedure, known as laparoscopic pyelolithotomy, involves removing the stones through small incisions in the abdominal wall or back. It is ideal for complex, large, or impacted stones and results in less postoperative pain and quicker discharge.
Athletes and active individuals often suffer from knee injuries such as ligament tears, cartilage damage, or meniscal injuries. Keyhole surgery knee, or arthroscopy, allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat these problems with precision. Tiny instruments and a camera are inserted into the knee joint, enabling minimal tissue damage and faster rehabilitation.
Ovarian Cysts and Endometriosis
In gynecology, keyhole surgery is commonly used to treat ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and even assist in fertility treatments. Laparoscopic removal of cysts or endometrial tissue helps relieve symptoms like pelvic pain and irregular menstruation, while preserving reproductive health.
An ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus (usually in the fallopian tube), is a medical emergency. Laparoscopic surgery can be used to safely remove the ectopic tissue, with less trauma to the reproductive system and quicker healing compared to open surgery.
Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery
Procedures such as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass are increasingly performed using keyhole techniques. These surgeries help manage obesity and related conditions like diabetes and hypertension, with fewer complications and shorter hospital stays.
When Should I Consult the Doctor for Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery can be done as an elective procedure or during an emergency, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the type of medical condition. Keyhole surgery is done if the symptoms do not improve with medications and other non-surgical treatment methods.
Get in touch with the general surgeon if you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, high fever with vomiting, painful swelling or bulge in the abdomen/groin, blood in urine or loss of joint mobility, etc. You should also consult a doctor if:
Persistent or worsening symptoms
Chronic abdominal pain, joint stiffness, or groin discomfort that doesn't improve.
Failure of medical treatment
Conditions like hernias or kidney stones not responding to medications or therapy.
Acute medical emergencies
Sudden severe pain, appendicitis, or obstructed gallstones may need urgent surgery.
When imaging or tests don’t provide a clear diagnosis (e.g., endometriosis, unexplained pelvic pain).
Inability to work, exercise, or perform daily tasks due to pain or discomfort.
Treating small hernias or gallstones early can avoid serious future issues.
How Can I Prepare for Keyhole Surgery?
Preparing for keyhole surgery helps reduce the risk of complications and speeds up recovery. A well-planned preoperative routine not only ensures that you're physically ready for the procedure but also mentally prepared.
Whether you’re undergoing keyhole surgery for a hernia, appendix, gallbladder, or kidney stones, following these tips can make your surgical journey smoother and more comfortable. Here are some pre-operative tips which can help you prepare for laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery:
Attend All Pre-Surgery Diagnostic Appointments
Make sure to attend all scheduled consultations, diagnostic tests, and anaesthetic evaluations. It is crucial to undergo a comprehensive evaluation before the procedure to determine the best surgical procedure based on the diagnostic test analysis and reports. These appointments help your medical team understand your current health status and plan the surgery safely.
Disclose All Medications and Supplements
Inform the doctor about all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you're taking. Some may need to be stopped before surgery, especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or supplements that increase bleeding risk.
The doctors generally advise stopping eating or drinking 6–8 hours before the procedure. This is crucial to prevent complications like aspiration during anaesthesia.
Quit Smoking and Avoid Alcohol
Quit smoking at least 1–2 weeks before surgery. Smoking can delay wound healing and increase anaesthesia-related risks. Alcohol should also be avoided, as it can interfere with medications and recovery.
Inform Of Any Other Medical Condition:
Inform the doctor regarding any current medical conditions that can pose risk during the procedure. It is also important to inform the doctor of the history of any illnesses or medical disorders that can recur to avoid any complications.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
On the day of surgery, wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to change out of and doesn’t restrict movement post-op. Avoid wearing jewellery, makeup, or contact lenses.
Arrange Post-Surgery Support
Plan for someone to accompany you on the day of surgery and help you get home. Arrange for assistance with basic tasks for at least 1–2 days after surgery, depending on the procedure.
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What Happens During Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery, also known as laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery, is performed through small incisions rather than one large cut. The surgical team then cleans and sterilises the area to be operated on, most commonly the abdomen or pelvis. It is commonly used for procedures in the abdomen or pelvis.
The patient is first placed under general anaesthesia, ensuring they are unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure. Once the patient is asleep, the surgeon makes a few tiny incisions (less than 1.5 centimetres long) in the skin, usually no bigger than a fingertip. The surgeon inserts a long, thin tube with a tiny camera and light on the end, called a laparoscope.
This lets the surgeon gain access inside the body, which can be observed clearly on a screen in the operating room. To create more space to work, a small amount of carbon dioxide gas is pumped into your body which gently lifts the muscles and skin away from the internal organs.
Through the other small incisions, the surgeon inserts thin surgical instruments to perform the procedure. The surgeon operates by watching the video feed and controlling the instruments with precise movements. This technique allows complex procedures to be performed with much smaller wounds than traditional open surgery, leading to less pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery.
General Surgeons at Artemis Hospitals use keyhole surgery that may be enhanced with robotic-assisted technology, most commonly using the Da Vinci Surgical System. In this setup, the surgeon sits at a console and controls robotic arms equipped with surgical instruments. The robot translates the surgeon’s hand movements into extremely precise micro-movements inside the patient’s body. The system also provides a 3D, high-definition view of the surgical area. This technology allows for greater precision, flexibility, and control, especially in delicate or complex procedures like prostate surgery or gynaecological operations.
Once the procedure is complete, the instruments and laparoscope are removed, the gas is released, and the small incisions are closed with stitches, surgical glue, or staples. Recovery is typically faster than traditional surgery, with many patients going home the same or the next day, depending on the complexity of the operation.
What to Expect After Keyhole Surgery?
Here's what you can typically expect after your keyhole surgery:
You’ll wake up in the recovery room after the anaesthesia wears off. You may feel a bit drowsy, confused, or cold at first, which is normal.
You’ll likely feel some mild to moderate pain around the incision sites. You may also have shoulder or chest pain caused by the carbon dioxide gas used during surgery, which should improve within a day or two.
The cuts will be covered with small dressings. They may feel sore or itchy as they heal.
For many keyhole procedures, patients go home the same day or within 24–48 hours. If your surgery was more complex or if you had complications, you may need to stay longer.
Rest is important, but you’ll also be encouraged to move around gently to help your circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
You may be given pain medication to take at home. Over-the-counter options like paracetamol or ibuprofen are often enough.
You can usually start eating and drinking normally within a day, but it’s best to begin with light meals.
Keep the incision sites clean and dry. Your nurse or doctor will explain how to care for them and when to remove or change dressings if needed.
What are the Advantages of Keyhole Surgery?
Keyhole surgery has several advantages over traditional open surgery due to the techniques and technology used. Here are certain advantages of keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery:
One of the most noticeable benefits of keyhole surgery is the use of very small cuts, usually less than 1.5 cm long, instead of one large incision. These small openings are just big enough to allow a camera and surgical instruments to pass through. Because the cuts are tiny, there is less trauma to the skin and underlying tissues, which helps speed up the healing process.
Since the incisions are smaller and the internal tissues are disturbed less than in open surgery, patients usually experience less pain after keyhole procedures. This means you may need fewer or milder pain medications, and you’ll likely feel more comfortable in the days following your surgery.
Keyhole surgery generally allows for a much quicker recovery. Many patients are able to go home the same day or within 24 to 48 hours. You may also be able to return to normal activities, including work and exercise, much sooner compared to open surgery. In some cases, recovery time is reduced from several weeks to just a few days.
Because the incisions are so small, the resulting scars are often barely noticeable. Over time, these tiny marks may fade significantly or even become almost invisible. This is a major advantage for patients who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of scars, especially after surgery in visible areas.
Smaller wounds mean there’s less area for bacteria to enter, so the risk of infection is lower compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, with fewer stitches or staples and less exposure of internal organs, the chances of post-surgical complications are reduced.
Reduced Blood Loss and Internal Trauma
Keyhole surgery causes less disturbance to your internal organs and surrounding tissue. This leads to less bleeding during the procedure and less bruising afterwards. As a result, the body experiences less stress and inflammation, which helps promote smoother recovery.
Better Visualisation for the Surgeon
During keyhole surgery, the surgeon uses a small camera (called a laparoscope) that provides a magnified, high-definition view of the inside of your body on a monitor. This gives the surgeon a clearer and more detailed picture than they might have during open surgery, which can help improve precision and reduce the chance of complications.
Lower Risk of Postoperative Complications
Since the procedure is less invasive overall, the chances of complications such as hernias, wound infections, or breathing problems after surgery are almost negligible. The reduced strain on the body also lowers the chances of issues like blood clots or delayed healing.
Risks Associated With the Keyhole Surgery
Although rare, keyhole surgery may pose some risks, such as:
Infection: Managed with antibiotics if necessary.
Bleeding: Minimal but possible during or after the procedure.
Organ Injury: Rare but may require open surgical correction.
Reaction to Anaesthesia: Monitored closely during the procedure.
Conversion to Open Surgery: If complications arise.
What are the Recovery Tips After Keyhole Surgery?
After the keyhole surgery, recovery depends on the type of medical condition, severity of the disorder and medical health of the patient. Recovery is faster for patients who undergo laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery than traditional open surgery. Most people feel back to normal in 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the type of surgery and their general health.
The patient may be advised to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or driving for a short time, often around 1 to 2 weeks. Follow these to ensure a smooth recovery:
Take prescribed medications and attend follow-ups.
Prevent infection by cleaning incisions as advised.
Avoid heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks.
Hydrate & eat light can help digestion and overall healing.
Rest adequately and give your body time to recover.
Contact Artemis Hospital for Advanced Keyhole Surgery in Gurgaon
At Artemis Hospitals, we are committed to providing world-class laparoscopic surgery with a focus on precision, safety, and patient comfort. With our expertise, cutting-edge technology, and patient-centric approach, we are a preferred choice for minimally invasive procedures. Here’s why you should trust Artemis Hospitals for your laparoscopic surgery:
Expert & Experienced Surgeons
We have highly skilled laparoscopic surgeons across various specialities, including gynaecology, urology, gastroenterology, oncology, and general surgery. They are experts in performing minimally invasive procedures.
Multidisciplinary Team & Personalised Treatment Plans
Every patient is unique, and so is their treatment. At Artemis Hospitals, we take a multidisciplinary approach, working closely with anaesthetists, critical care specialists, pain management experts, and rehabilitation teams to create personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s medical needs.
State-of-the-Art Technology & Advanced Surgical Techniques
At Artemis Hospitals, we use the latest high-definition laparoscopic cameras and surgical tools to ensure precision and safety in every procedure. With cutting-edge robotics technology, including the Da Vinci Robot for minimally invasive surgeries and the Cuvis Joint Replacement System for orthopaedic procedures, our fully equipped operating theatres uphold the highest standards of care, reducing risks and improving surgical outcomes.
We offer a complete suite of both surgical and non-surgical options personalized to individual needs, including:
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (AGB)
Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Procedures
Robotic Surgery with da Vinci Surgical System
Our use of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery ensures greater precision, smaller incisions, faster recovery, and improved outcomes for procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass.
To book an appointment with top general surgeons at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By - Dr. Kapil Kochhar
Head (Unit II) - General & Minimally Invasive Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is keyhole surgery painful?
No, keyhole surgery is not painful since it is done under anaesthesia. However, post-operative pain may subside after the surgery, after the effect of anaesthesia wears off.
Can all surgeries be done through the keyhole method?
No, some complex or emergency cases, such as appendectomy, may require open surgery in case of appendix rupture. Also, depending on the preference of patients and the financial choices, open surgery may be preferred.
How long does keyhole surgery take?
Keyhole surgeries usually last between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of procedure, medical condition, and surgical expertise of the surgeon.
Will I need stitches?
Yes, since the procedure involves minute incisions, the surgeon may use surgical sutures to close the incision. However, keyhole surgery involves a minute incision, which results in almost invisible scars.
Is keyhole surgery safe for older patients?
Yes, keyhole surgery is often a safer procedure due to several benefits such as pinhole incision, minimal blood loss and almost negligible chances of complications.
Can I drive after keyhole surgery?
Patients are usually advised to drive or resume any physical activity 5–7 days after the procedure. However, it is always advised to consult the doctor to avoid any complications.
Will insurance cover keyhole surgery?
The cost for keyhole surgery is covered under insurance if the procedure is deemed a medical necessity. However, the full extent of medical coverage depends on the type of insurance provider and the terms and conditions set by them.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients resume work within 7–14 days, depending on the surgery. However, it is always advisable to consult the doctor before returning to work to avoid any unnecessary risks.
Where can I get the best general surgeon for keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best general surgeons in Gurgaon who offer advanced keyhole surgery with a high success rate. To know more, get in touch with us.
Who is the best general surgeon for keyhole surgery near me in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best general surgeons in Gurgaon who offer advanced keyhole surgery with a high success rate. To know more, get in touch with us.
What factors affect the keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery cost in Gurgaon?
Keyhole surgery cost is influenced by factors like the technique used, hospital fees, surgeon's expertise, hospital bed, type of medical condition, etc. To get a cost estimate, contact us to book an appointment with some of the best general surgeons in Gurgaon.
