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== Keyhole (Medicine) ==

'''Keyhole''' (pronounced: /ˈkiːˌhoʊl/), also known as '''minimally invasive surgery''' or '''laparoscopic surgery''', is a modern surgical technique in which operations are performed through small incisions, as opposed to the larger incisions needed in traditional surgical procedures.

=== Etymology ===

The term "keyhole" in this context is derived from the small, keyhole-shaped incisions made by surgeons to access the internal body area. The term was first used in the late 20th century, coinciding with the development of new, minimally invasive surgical techniques.

=== Procedure ===

In a keyhole surgery, the surgeon makes one or more small incisions in the patient's body. A [[laparoscope]] - a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front - is inserted through one of these incisions. The camera sends images to a video monitor, giving the surgeon a clear view of the area being operated on.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Laparoscope]]: A medical device used in keyhole surgery to view the internal structures of the body.
* [[Endoscope]]: A similar device to a laparoscope, used in a variety of minimally invasive procedures.
* [[Robotic Surgery]]: A type of minimally invasive surgery where procedures are performed by robotic systems.
* [[Incision]]: A cut made in the body during surgery.

=== Advantages and Disadvantages ===

Keyhole surgery has several advantages over traditional open surgery. These include less pain following the procedure, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times. However, it also has potential disadvantages, such as a longer operation time and the need for specialized surgical training.

[[Category:Medical Terms]]
[[Category:Surgical Procedures]]

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