Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Procedures
by
Krisha McCoy, MS Definition TOPA doctor uses robotic arms to operate through small keyhole incisions in the abdomen. The robotic arms are able to do surgical tasks with an increased range of motion. They also can filter out hand tremor. The special tools translate the doctor’s larger hand movements into smaller ones. This allows delicate work to occur in small spaces.
Reasons for Procedure TOPSome laparoscopic surgeries that have been successful using robotic techniques include:
Compared to more traditional procedures, robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery may result in:
Possible Complications TOPProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure. What to Expect TOPPrior to ProcedureDepending on the reason for your surgery, your doctor may do the following:
Leading up to the procedure:
AnesthesiaDepending on the type of procedure that you have, you may be given:
Description of the Procedure TOPSeveral small incisions will be made. They are called keyhole incisions. Carbon dioxide gas will be passed into the abdomen to expand it. This will make it easier for the doctor to view the area. A small camera will be passed through one of the incisions. This tool is called an endoscope. It lights, magnifies, and projects an image of the organs onto a video screen. The endoscope will be attached to one of the robotic arms. The other arms will hold tools that are able to grasp, cut, dissect, and stitch. These may include:
The doctor will sit at a console, looking at the images on the screen. The robotic arms and tools will be guided by movements of the surgeon. Another doctor will stay by you to adjust the tools as needed. In some cases, organs or tissue might need to be removed. When the procedure is done, the tools will be removed. The incisions will be closed with stitches or staples, and a sterile dressing will be applied. How Long Will It Take? TOPAbout 1-2 hours, depending on the type of procedure How Much Will It Hurt? TOPAnesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications. You may also feel discomfort from the gas used during the procedure. This can last up to 3 days. Average Hospital Stay TOPThis procedure is done in a hospital setting. The usual length of stay is 1-2 days. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if you have any problems. Post-procedure Care TOPTo help with your recovery at home:
Depending on the procedure, you should make a full recovery within a few weeks. Call Your Doctor TOPCall your doctor of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American College of Surgeons https://www.facs.org National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Cardiovascular Society http://www.ccs.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Robotic surgery. The Robotic Surgery Center at NYU Langone Medical Center website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed March 27, 2018. Ruurda JP, van Vroonhoven ThJMV, eBroeders IA. Robot-assisted surgical systems: a new era in laparoscopic surgery.
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Last reviewed March 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Donald W. Buck II, MD Last Updated: 5/29/2014 |
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