Robotic surgery has opened a wonderful option for surgeons to perform invasive procedures. This median allows for smaller incisions and more precise movements, a revolutionary piece of technology.
While it may sound a little strange to have a robot doing an operation,
robotic surgery has allowed surgeons to perform operations with more precision than ever before. The surgeon uses a computer to direct the robot through each step of the procedure. He's able to see a magnified, real time picture of your body through a small camera that enters your body along with the instruments. Robotic surgery allows the surgeon to make smaller incisions and very precise movements inside your body during the procedure, thus reducing infection risks and recovery time.
What to Expect During the Procedure
You'll be put to sleep under general anesthesia, so your operation is completely pain-free. The surgeon will be nearby sitting at a computer that he uses to direct the robot's movements. Instruments, which are attached to the robots arms, enter your body through small incisions, and each arm mimics the doctor's movement. A camera is attached to a thin tube, and allows your surgeon to see a magnified picture of the location. After the operation, you may have some side effects from the anesthesia, and you'll definitely have some recovery time. Your surgeon will let you know what you can and cannot do in the weeks immediately following your procedure. The small incisions may reduce your recovery time.
Why is This Technique Used?
Robotic surgery has many advantages over other techniques. For certain surgical procedures, it's actually an easier method to use. The surgeon views a magnified picture of the location, which makes it easier for him to use precise movements and cuts with a smaller margin of error. The robots arms are significantly smaller than a surgeon's arms and hands, thus smaller incisions can be used, cutting down the risk of infection as speeding recovery time. Even though the surgeon is directing the robot's movements, his own movements are significantly smaller and performed in a more comfortable position than during the typical surgical methods. Also, the robot's arm is able to reach places that a surgeon's hand would have trouble finding.
What Type of Surgeries Are Performed Robotically?
Common procedures such as coronary artery bypass, gallbladder removal, hip replacement, kidney transplants, mitral valve repair, hysterectomies, tubal ligation, and others can typically be performed using a robot. Some more complicated procedures (for instance, some types of open heart surgery,) cannot be performed using a robot.
What Risks are Involved?
As with any surgical procedure, you have a risk of internal bleeding and infection in the wound. Robotic surgery may greatly reduce this risk due to the smaller incisions and precise movement while inside.
Since these procedures are performed under general anesthesia, all the risks associated with this type of medication remain. You may react to the medication, or have problems breathing during or after the procedure. These side effects are caused by the anesthesia and not the surgical procedure performed by the robot.
Overall, robotic surgery has provided surgeons with an excellent means of performing precise surgical operations with fewer risks to their patients.
