Division of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Recently formed as a new division within the Johns Hopkins Department of Surgery, the Division of Minimally Invasive Surgery specializes in the surgical treatment of gastrointestinal and abdominal wall disease. The division has particular expertise in the foregut — a part of the body that consists of the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach), stomach and upper small intestines. Additionally, we offer surgery for benign gallbladder disease (gallstones, biliary colic) and a wide range of hernias (inguinal, ventral, incisional, umbilical, epigastric, hiatal and paraesophageal).

Throughout the department, our surgeons utilize the world’s most advanced minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques to perform safe and precise procedures with small incisions, leading to quicker recovery times, less scarring, shorter hospital stays and reduced blood loss for patients.

Learn more about the benefits of minimally invasive and robotic surgery, and what types of surgical procedures can be performed through these techniques. Also learn more about our Minimally Invasive Surgical Training Center.

Conditions We Treat

The Division of Minimally Invasive Surgery specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases in the foregut, including:

What is Inguinal Hernia? | Q&A

Johns Hopkins general surgeon Bethany Sacks answers important questions about the minimally invasive approach to inguinal hernia surgery including ideal candidates, latest advancements and the recovery process.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) | FAQ with Dr. Gina Adrales

Johns Hopkins minimally invasive surgeon Gina Adrales answers important questions about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) including the most common symptoms and the recovery process.

Gallbladder Surgery | Q&A

Johns Hopkins general surgeon Bethany Sacks answers important questions about the minimally invasive approach to gallbladder surgery including the benefits and risks and recovery process.

We also offer additional world-class hernia repair procedures at our Comprehensive Hernia Center.

Our Advanced Treatment Approaches

Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery uses a small camera and instruments to reach internal organs through minor incisions. The camera allows the surgeon to view the organs on a high-definition screen. Compared to traditional open or long incision surgery, minimally invasive or laparoscopic surgery is associated with shorter recovery times and less pain.

Robotic Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery allows surgeons to perform a surgery with precision and control. During this surgery, surgeons will insert small tools and a small camera through small incisions on the body, giving the surgeon a clearer view of the area. The surgeon moves the tools with a controller that takes the place of an actual hand. Surgeons are able to view a high-definition 3-D image on the console, making it easier to see the surgical procedure.

Your physician will decide on the best option for you.

Robotic Surgery | FAQ with Dr. Alisa Coker

Johns Hopkins minimally invasive surgeon Dr. Alisa Coker answers frequently asked questions about robotic surgery, including conditions treated with the technique and benefits in comparison to traditional open surgery.

LINX | FAQ with Dr. Alisa Coker

Johns Hopkins minimally invasive surgeon Dr. Alisa Coker answers frequently asked questions regarding the use of the LINX reflux management system in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.