Ralf Widenhorn-Web Central
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Laparoscopy & Endoscopy

Laparoscopic surgeries have become widespread with the availability of optical technology including fiber optics and lens systems. The endoscopic assemblage consists of a lens system, a light source, and a collection system that projects an image from inside the body onto the surgeon's eye or a camera. High resolution, high magnification images available in real time allow for minimally invasive, safer surgeries.  In this series, students hear from a laparoscopic surgeon as he details the physics behind the work he performs and how advances in technology have helped to improve patient outcomes.  Homework and labs focus on the following topics:
  • refraction
  • total internal reflection
  • blackbody radiation
  • oscillations
  • standing waves
  • photons
  • illumination through fibers
  • imaging through fibers and lenses
  • digital detectors
  • harmonic scalpel


In this YouTube video series, Dr. James Dolan discusses the advantages of laparoscopy over traditional open surgery and the trend towards minimally invasive procedures that decrease hospital stays and healing time.  He details the different types of procedures performed as well as explains the equipment used in the process.  Additionally, he discusses how laparoscopy allows for precision that is difficult to achieve through traditional methods.  He concludes with a discussion of the education and training required to become a laparoscopic surgeon.  
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