Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery widely employed in the field of medicine to perform surgeries related to general surgery, gynecology, urology, cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, and others.
Many of the complex surgical procedures are performed with the da Vinci® robotic system. The da Vinci® surgical system consists of a surgeon's computer console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system (3D camera) and miniaturized EndoWrist surgical instruments.
The most common indications for robotic surgery include any cancerous and non-cancerous tumors of the head, spine, lung, prostate, liver and pancreas.
Some of the benefits of robotic surgery include:
- Minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues
- Faster recovery time
- Less post-operative pain
- Minimal scarring
- Shorter hospitalization
- Reduced blood less and need for transfusion
Most people are candidates for Robotic surgery; however, not every patient is an appropriate candidate for a minimally invasive procedure. Robotic surgery is contraindicated in patients with bleeding disorders, severe obesity, pregnancy, cardiopulmonary diseases such as COPD, cirrhosis, bowel obstruction, and adhesions from previous abdominal surgery.
The decision to undergo robotic surgery depends on your particular situation and your doctor’s preference. Discuss with your doctor about all treatment options suitable for you.