Evaluating Outcomes Of Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques In Improving Recovery And Reducing Complications Among Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has transformed pediatric surgical practice by offering smaller incisions, faster recovery, and fewer complications compared with traditional open techniques. Despite its global acceptance, evidence from developing regions such as Pakistan remains limited, warranting a focused evaluation of its outcomes in pediatric populations. Objective: To assess the effectiveness and safety of minimally invasive surgical techniques in enhancing postoperative recovery and reducing complication rates among pediatric patients in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: A retrospective data analysis was conducted over 12 months (January–December 2024) across three tertiary hospitals in Lahore. A total of 320 pediatric patients aged 1 month to 16 years were included, equally divided between MIS and open surgery groups. Demographic data, operative parameters, recovery outcomes, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Pain was assessed using the Wong-Baker FACES scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, applying t-tests and chi-square tests for normally distributed data, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: MIS demonstrated superior outcomes across several domains. The mean operative time was shorter (85.4 ± 22.1 vs. 104.6 ± 24.5 minutes, p < 0.001), intraoperative blood loss was lower (48.7 ± 19.3 vs. 92.1 ± 27.5 ml, p < 0.001), and hospital stay was reduced (2.8 ± 1.1 vs. 5.6 ± 1.9 days, p < 0.001). Overall complications were significantly lower in the MIS group (11.2%) than in the open group (24.5%, p = 0.004). Pain scores were consistently lower across postoperative days 1, 3, and 7 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Minimally invasive surgery in pediatric patients significantly improves recovery, reduces postoperative complications, and minimizes pain compared with open procedures. Wider adoption and training in MIS can enhance pediatric surgical outcomes, especially in resource-limited healthcare settings