Another way of viewing these videos through your mobile devices is to download an app that can be obtained for free from my webpage www.selvaapps.com.

If you would like these videos in DVDs or a thumbdrive you can purchase them by writing to me at [email protected]. Readers will benefit most by reading a chapter and then watching the accompanying video on that chapter. This will give a better understanding of the topic discussed. My own experience has taught me that one can learn much more from a video than from merely reading a book, (especially if it concerns technical issues such as those discussed in this book).

I hope you will enjoy reading this book and watching the videos, as much as I have had in preparing this book.

Foreword

Foreword By Dato’ Dr. Alex Mathews

Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery, has come a long way and has revolutionised the performance of a large number of surgical procedures. It is now utilised in most surgical specialities.

Laparoscopic surgery in gynaecology has developed into a highly sophisticated and precise form of surgery. Today many advanced gynaecological procedures can be performed safely and effectively using laparoscopic techniques.

In surgeries, there are usually 2 separate steps; the first, an incision (a cut) through the skin layer of the body and the second, the actual surgery deeper inside the body. In these conventional “open” surgeries, the cut on the skin layer is fairly large. This is to ensure good visibility and manoeuvrability for the surgery to be done effectively. The pain and discomfort after surgery, in most cases, is mainly from the cut on this skin layer.

In laparoscopic surgery one difference is that the cut on the skin layer is much smaller. The surgery is performed through small cuts using specially designed instruments that can be manipulated through these incisions. The internal structures are clearly visible to the surgeon because of highly specialised small cameras placed inside the body that transmit the image onto a high-definition video screen. The surgeon operates while looking at the screen. The assistant and observers can follow the entire surgery on the screen.

Major advantages of laparoscopic surgery include less tissue damage, clearer vision, and often better access to hidden structures. Several procedures never before possible with conventional surgery are now being done laparoscopically with great efficiency and minimal damage to surrounding tissues. The recovery period is shorter and return to work is much quicker without compromise on outcome.

However, the training of a laparoscopic surgeon is a long and intensive process. Basic training is done first on laboratory models. Then, there is a process of watching and assisting senior surgeons. The trainee surgeons then perform surgeries under direct supervision. Only then do surgeons embark on surgery independantly.

Surgeons continually update their skills through advanced training. As in all surgeries, complications can occur, but with due care and proper training these can be reduced to a minimum.

One of the pioneers of advanced laparoscopic gynaecological surgery in Malaysia is the author if this book, Dr. S. Selva.

Dr. Selva started laparoscopic surgery early. Initially, there was only very basic equipment available. However, Dr. Selva quickly advanced his skills, training in some of the best centres overseas.

Today Dr. Selva is an acknowledged expert and trainer and innovator in advanced techniques. He has a busy schedule providing training to surgeons who want to improve their skills.

Dr. Selva has another passion, i.e. a long standing desire to help patients and other lay-persons understand gynaecological laparoscopic procedures. He does this in his book using clear descriptions, pictures, and videos of actual surgeries. He, thus, helps lay-persons to participate meaningfully in making decisions in consultation with their doctors.

This book with the accompanying videos is an excellent contribution to public medical education.

I have no doubt it will be useful for many. Even medical practitioners of other disciplines will find this book interesting and informative.

To all who have any interest in knowing more about this subject I can heartily commend this remarkable publication.

Dato’ Dr. Alex Mathews FRCOG

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Gleneagles Hospital,
Kuala Lumpur,

Former Head of Department,
General Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Former Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Services, Ministry Of Health, Malaysia.