Robotic Surgery
Decades ago, surgery almost certainly involved a large open incision and days of recovery in the hospital. Then laparoscopic technology came along. Laparoscopy allowed surgeons to use tiny surgical tools and cameras. This meant that many surgical procedures no longer required large incisions and long recovery times; instead, they could be done through a few minor incisions.
A New Generation of Surgical Technology
Today, a third wave of surgical technology has arrived: robotic-assisted surgery (also referred to as “robotic surgery”). Bravera Health Spring Hill is proud to offer robotic-assisted surgery to patients.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of procedure offered by select general surgeons, breast surgeons and surgical oncologists who have undergone special training in the use of robotics. The word “assisted” is important to emphasize, as a robot is no actually performing the procedure or making any decisions. Rather, the surgeon is in complete control of the procedure and relies on the robotic tools to assist in certain tasks.
Here’s how it works:
- The surgeon sits at a control station in the operating room just a few feet away from the patient on the operating table.
- The surgeon has highly sensitive wrist controls and high-definition video monitors, which he relies on to guide the robot in creating incisions and performing the surgery.
- The robot has special tremor-resistant features and the ability to scale the surgeon’s hand motions with incredible precision. The surgeon’s controls allow him to complete certain movements (like 360º rotation), which would be impossible with the human hand alone.
- At any time, the procedure can be converted to a traditional minimally invasive surgery (MIS) or open surgery, if necessary. The surgeon maintains full control of the robotic technology throughout every step of the procedure.
What Procedures Can Be Done With Robotic Surgery?
Many procedures may be done with robotic assistance. Some of the robotic-assisted surgeries that are frequently performed include:
What Are the Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
Robotic-assisted surgery can offer several advantages over MIS and open surgery, including improved visualization, dexterity and precision for the surgeon. There are a number of potential patient benefits, as well, which may include:
- Shorter hospital stay
- Less pain and discomfort
- Quicker recovery and return to work/normal routine
- Smaller incisions (which could reduce the risk of infection)
- Less blood loss and need for blood transfusion
- Less scarring
It’s important to realize that the potential benefits of robotic surgery vary, depending on the type of procedure and the patient. The potential benefits described here are very general; talk to your surgeon for more information about risks and benefits as they pertain to your case.