The harmonic scalpel is placed through one opening and the camera lens through the other, providing sharp, detailed images of the surgical site in question on high-definition monitors. We are able to visualize the chain of nerves, which was extremely difficult to see in the open procedure. The chain removal usually takes approximately five to 10 minutes through these small openings, with the entire procedure taking less than an hour. The patient returns to a regular room and is discharged that day. Dr. Cooper, who has been at Cedars-Sinai since 1976, said the incisions are so small that sutures are unnecessary.
Surgical glue holds the skin together, leaving only a tiny scar.
Previously, people may have been off for a month. I've had this ever since I was a young child. I assume most people just live with it, as I did, because you don't realize that it's something that can be fixed. I went to doctors who said, 'That's just the way it is. But as I got older, it got somewhat worse and it caused my hands and feet to swell.