Minimally invasive colectomy using the GelPort^® system is an advanced procedure that allows surgeons to remove a portion of the colon while reducing pain, hospital stay, recovery time and incision size for the patient.

Minimally invasive colectomy using the GelPort system combines the advantage of a laparoscopic camera and its magnification with the ability of the surgeon to insert his or her hand through a small 3 to 4 inch incision in the abdomen. The patient's abdomen is inflated to provide the surgeon ample operating room and a better view of the colon and surrounding organs. Several small tubes are placed in the abdomen to provide access for the laparoscopic camera and instruments. The surgeon's hand is then inserted through the revolutionary gel material and functions as a surgical tool to guide the body's tissues and the laparoscopic devices used to remove the colon. The hand enables precise handling of tissue, including the ability to palpate tumors, judge the extent of disease and control bleeding.

Traditional open surgery requires a large 8 to 12 inch incision, long hospital stay and extended recovery time. Minimally invasive colectomy using the GelPort system results in less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stay, better cosmetic results and a quicker return to normal activity.