Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery and computer-assisted surgery are procedures that use robotic systems to aid surgeons when performing operations. In these types of surgery, the incisions are smaller than traditional open surgery, helping minimize scarring and chances of infection. Robotic instrumentation tend to be more precise and the instruments used can navigate through a patient with rotation and positioning that the bare human hand may not achieve.

Patients often ask what medical robots do and whether they are safe. Robotic surgery systems, such as the da Vinci® Surgical System, are designed to assist surgeons with enhanced precision and control during procedures. Key benefits include multiple articulated arms for improved maneuverability, 3D high-definition imaging with magnification for a clearer surgical view and calibrated instrument movements that allow for precise operation even in complex or delicate procedures.

Procedures may vary depending on the patient’s need, however robotic surgery typically includes the following components, which are all located in the same room as the patient and the physician and medical staff:

• Surgeons Console: The control center of the system is where the surgeon works and where they control the movement of the robotic instruments and endoscope.
• Patient Side Cart: This area is composed of three or four articulated mechanical arms. These arms support the endoscopic instruments and camera during the surgical procedure.
• Electronic Cart: The component that holds the hardware and software.

Compared to traditional techniques, robotic surgery operates through very tiny incisions, which may reduce a patient’s duration of stay in the hospital. The high-definition 3D cameras allow surgeons to get close-up views of areas they cannot see during open surgery.

In comparison to open surgery, having the assistance of a fully articulating robotic arm allows the surgeon to have greater dexterity and precise control which was not possible to achieve with traditional surgery and conventional laparoscopic instruments.

Talk with your doctor to find out if you are a candidate for robotic surgery. Here are some things to consider when deciding if a robotic procedure could be the right choice for you:

• You want to avoid having large or multiple incisions that could cause scarring.
• You do not want a long hospital stay.
• You want to minimize blood loss and avoid the need for a blood transfusion during surgery.
• You would prefer to limit the amount and duration of pain medications following surgery.
• You want to minimize the risk of infection following surgery.
• You want to know about surgical options that may provide better overall clinical outcomes and quicker return to everyday activities.

Once you’ve had your procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery room. Many patients only spend one night in the hospital. You may experience some soreness from the surgery and should ask the staff for pain medication as needed. Be sure to discuss with your physician and care team what you should expect immediately after surgery.

Once you are ready for discharge, you’ll receive instructions. Pain and soreness should resolve over the course of days or weeks, and pain medication should be taken as needed. At home, make sure to stay hydrated and eat a bland diet with small, frequent meals. It is also important to walk several times per day, increasing the distance each time.