What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery that is becoming widely used in hospitals across the United States.
鈥淩obotic surgery uses advanced robotic technology to assist surgeons in performing complex surgical procedures,鈥� UR Medicine鈥檚 Kaci L. Schiavone, MD, explains. The technique, which uses robotic arms and a high-definition, 3D camera, enhances the surgeon鈥檚 precision and control.
UR Medicine uses the market鈥檚 primary robotic platform, the Intuitive Da Vinci Surgical System. The Da Vinci system combines surgeon expertise with robotic technology, enabling precise movements in delicate areas of the body.
How Does Robotic Surgery Work?
In robotic surgery, the surgeons remain fully in control. They sit at a console in the operating room and use hand controls and foot pedals to guide the robotic arms. The robot translates the surgeon's movements into actions performed by the surgical instruments.
Is Robotic Surgery Safe?
Yes. Robotic-assisted surgery is safe for patients. It offers surgeons ergonomic benefits, reducing physical strain during long, complex operations.
The technology has many safety protocols, including real-time monitoring and fail-safes, to ensure the robotic system functions seamlessly throughout the procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Robotic Surgery?
- Reduced pain after surgery
- Lower risk of infections and complications
- Shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times
What Surgeries Are Performed with Robotic Surgery?
With its advanced capabilities, the Da Vinci system has become a valuable tool for surgeons in specialties like bariatrics, urology, and gynecology.
At UR Medicine, robotic surgery is used in a range of procedures such as:
- Removal of tumors and other forms of cancer treatment
- Precision suturing and dissection tasks
- Surgeries requiring extensive or delicate handling of soft tissues, such as bariatric surgery and hernia repair
How Long Does a Robotic Surgery Typically Take?
The duration of a robotic surgery can vary greatly depending on the type of procedure. In some cases, robotic surgery may take slightly longer than traditional approaches. However, the benefits of precision, safety, and improved recovery often outweigh this added time.
Bringing Advanced Surgery Closer to Home
In October 2024, St. James and Hospitals welcomed the state-of-the-art da Vinci Surgery System, joining Strong Memorial, Highland, and Thompson Hospitals in offering this cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgery option. This advancement brings complex surgical procedures closer to our communities, helping patients access high-quality care with smaller incisions, faster recovery times, and improved outcomes鈥攁ll without leaving the region.
da Vinci庐 Surgical System
UR Medicine St. James Hospital and Jones Memorial Hospitals are now offering da Vinci庐 robotic-assisted surgeries for hernia and gallbladder-related conditions.