But now patients have a new choice. Dr. Ballantyne at the Center for Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center is one of the pioneers in this exciting field. His surgical expertise has permitted hundreds of patients to achieve full recovery and get back on their feet in a hurry. Without the trauma of a long incision, both pain and healing time are greatly reduced. Related benefits include less need for post-operative pain medication, plus an earlier return to physical activity and a normal diet.
Most patients can rebuild strength and return to normal life in days rather than weeks.
Laparoscopy was approved for gallbladder surgery six years ago. Since that time the field has advanced quickly through the development of new technologies. Three-dimensional imaging and intraoperative ultrasound, available only recently, allow surgeons a better view of internal structures, making laparoscopy a safe option for a growing list of more complex surgical procedures. The Center for Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center was created by internationally respected surgeons who have led the way in extending laparoscopy to these new applications. As a beta test site for the newest laparoscopic instrumentation, the Center is the only one in New York that is optimally equipped to perform the most sophisticated procedures.