Mr Andrew Bowker

Specialist in Laparoscopic General Surgical Procedures

Laparoscopic Inguinal Repair
Laparoscopic repair for inguinal hernia is associated with rapid return to restriction-free activity and has a very low incidence of recurrence. Nerve entrapment, which can result from open repair, should never occur. With experience, there are very few inguinal hernias which are not able to be repaired laparoscopically.

I have what is probably the worlds largest individual series of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs. I have been fortunate in gaining an international profile, giving me the chance to travel, talking about the operation and demonstrating the technique.
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair experience: 8050 cases (recurrence rate 0.2%). July 2018

Single Port Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Cholecystectomy can now be performed via a single specially adapted operating port. This means that the operation is reduced to a 1.5-2.0 cm scar in the umbilicus.

I introduced this procedure to New Zealand in 2012. It is technically more challenging than conventional four port laparoscopic cholecystectomy, but I have now done over 90 cases, without need to convert to the four port approach. The main advantage is cosmetic, with reduced scarring. Recovery otherwise is very similar to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy experience: 2800 cases (4 conversions from laparoscopic to open). July 2018

Cholecystectomy
Hernia Repair
Anti-Reflux Procedures

Other Laparoscopic Procedures:
Heller Myotomy (for achalasia)
Adhesiolysis

Quotes/estimates are provided on request. These are carefully calculated in order to reduce the chance of any nasty surprises occurring, should patients be self-funding, rather than using private health insurance.

Qualifications
MBChB (Otago), FRCS (Edin), FRACS

Most patients come to see me having been referred by their General Practitioner. However, it is possible to make an appointment directly through my secretary.