What is robotically-assisted surgery?
Robotic-assisted surgery is a new way of performing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) incorporating techniques that allow a surgeon to operate through several small incisions about the size of a dime.
Who is using robotic surgery?
Robotic surgery is being used worldwide for performing a variety of surgical procedures.
What are the benefits of using robotically assisted surgery over more traditional methods of open surgery?
Some of the surgical benefits are greater precision, increased range of motion, improved dexterity and enhanced 3D visualization. Patients have experienced shorter hospital stays, less pain, less risk of infection, less blood loss and transfusions, less scarring as well as faster recovery and return to normal daily activities.
Who actually performs the surgery, the robot or the surgeon?
The surgeon uses the robot as a sophisticated piece of surgical equipment to perform the surgery.
What is the da Vinci Surgical System?
The da Vinci Surgical System is a totally “intuitive” laparoscopic surgical robot. It integrates the latest advancements in robotics, computer-enhanced technology and the surgeon’s skill. The System consists of several components a surgeon console, patient-side cart, instruments and image processing equipment.
What types of procedures are being done using the da Vinci System?
Today, the da Vinci Surgical System is being used to help surgeons perform complex procedures within cardiac, general thoracic, and urological procedures.
Will this system make the surgeon unnecessary?
On the contrary, it is designed to make the surgeon more precise, to advance his or her technique and to enhance his or her capability to perform complex , minimally invasive surgery. The system replicated a surgeon’s movements in real time. It cannot be programmed, nor can it make decisions on its own in anyway or perform any type of surgical maneuver without a surgeon’s input.
For more information please visit the Intuitive Surgical website, makers of the da Vinci Surgical System.
