What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is the latest minimally invasive surgery that can be used in various gynaecological conditions, with great results and benefits for the patient. Unlike laparoscopy where the operating surgeon is close to the patient, robot-assisted surgery allows surgeons to guide minimally invasive instruments remotely using a console and aided by 3D view. Robotic surgery also enables precise movements and enhanced magnification.
Benefits of robotic surgery
Robotic surgery has some key advantages over conventional surgery. It is less invasive with reduced blood loss and need for blood transfusion, faster recovery and return to normal activities, less pain for patients, a shorter stay in hospital, better reach and visibility and quicker recovery after surgery. The rate of complications is also lower.
What is the da Vinci robot?
The da Vinci robot is a comprehensive surgical robot with multiple arms. operated remotely from a console with video assisted visualisation and computer enhancement. The da Vinci system used in robotic surgery uses high-definition 3D cameras and special surgical tools on robotic arms. This allows very precise movements in small spaces and a fine dissection. The robotic arms are controlled by the surgeon with a computer. To do robotic surgery one must go through extensive formal training.
The robot is made up of there are essentially 3 components:
- a vision cart that holds a dual light source and dual 3-chip cameras,
- a master console where the operating surgeon sits,
- a moveable cart, where 2 instrument arms and the camera arm are mounted.
Robotic surgery for endometriosis and gynaecology
The surgeons at COPE Clinics provide keyhole surgery for the treatment of endometriosis and gynaecology conditions using robotic technology.
Currently robotic surrey is widely used in gynaecology and endometriosis surgeries. Robotic surgery is an important innovation which has provided new perspectives for the treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis. Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting almost 200 million women worldwide and develops by forming growths of endometrial similar tissue in areas such as the ovaries, pelvic walls, bowel, ureters and/or bladder.
Deep endometriosis is defined as endometriotic implants that infiltrate the underlying organs more than 5 mm in depth. Deep infiltrating endometriosis surgery requires advanced multidisciplinary surgical technique, performed quite often in an anatomically changed environment increasing the risks of complications, especially in the hands of a non-specialist.