3 Major Benefits of Robotic Surgery

Using small surgical instruments and a series of tiny incisions, robotic surgery is a minimally invasive technique with a multitude of benefits. It allows surgeons to do complex procedures with pinpoint precision. Bryan Parrent, MD, general surgeon at St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital, says, “For many patients, the major benefits of robotic surgery include less surgical trauma, minimal scarring, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgery.”

The Benefits of Robotic Surgery

1. Less Surgical Trauma
   Surgical robots have a high degree of dexterity, which allows surgeons to work with increased precision, flexibility, and control. As a result, patients typically have fewer complications. Compared to traditional options, patients may lose less blood and have a lower risk of surgical site infections.
2. Minimal Scarring
   Robotic technology allows surgeons to operate in tight spaces and make tiny incisions. An HD 3D camera magnifies the surgical sites, giving the surgeons greater visibility than the eye alone can see. Working with small incisions means smaller, less noticeable scars for patients.
3. Faster Recovery Times
   Thanks to the increased precision and visibility it provides surgeons, robotic surgery may lead to quicker recovery times for patients. Robotic surgery patients tend to heal notably faster than traditional surgery patients and often need less pain medication afterwards.

When Can It Be Used?

Performing robotic surgery requires state-of-the-art technology. The St. Joseph Health surgical team uses the da Vinci Surgical System for FDA-approved procedures. Currently, the FDA has approved over 50 robotic surgery procedures in the following areas:

• Bariatric Surgery (weight loss surgery)
• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Colorectal Surgery
• Otolaryngology – Head & Neck (ENT)
• General Surgery
• Gynecology
• Gynecologic Oncology
• Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility
• Urology

Learn more about St. Joseph Health’s Robotic Surgery. Need a second opinion? Schedule an appointment to talk with a St. Joseph Health doctor.

Sources
Robotic Surgery
Robotic Surgery: Applications, Limitations, and Impact on Surgical Education