Find Doctors for Robotic Surgery (Robot assisted surgical procedure)

What Is Robotic Surgery and How Does It Work?

Robotic surgery is a type of surgical procedure where special machines help doctors perform operations. These machines are controlled by a surgeon using a console in the operating room. The robot is not working by itself; the surgeon is always in control and directs all the movements. The system gives a clear, magnified three-dimensional view of the area being operated on, and the robotic arms move very precisely based on the surgeon’s instructions. Robotic surgery is often used to perform complex or delicate operations. It can be used for heart, urology, gynaecology, abdominal, cancer, and other surgeries. The main aim is to do the surgery through small cuts instead of large ones. This often leads to faster healing and fewer problems after the surgery.

Purpose & Benefits of Robotic Surgery

● Helps doctors do precise and delicate operations that may be hard with traditional methods.

● Often involves smaller cuts (incisions), so there is less damage to healthy tissue.

● Less pain after surgery due to smaller wounds.

● Less blood loss during surgery, lowering the chance of needing a blood transfusion.

● Lower risk of infection because the body is not opened up as much.

● Faster recovery, meaning shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily life.

● Smaller scars compared to open surgery.

Who May Need Robotic Surgery?

● People needing cancer surgery, such as for prostate, bladder, or colorectal cancer.

● Those having gynaecological surgery like hysterectomy or fibroid removal.

● Patients with urological conditions like kidney problems or prostate disease.

● People needing weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery).

● Individuals with complex abdominal conditions.

● Patients who would benefit from minimally invasive surgery instead of open surgery.

Types of Robotic Surgery

1. Endoscopic Robotic Surgery

This is the most common type. The surgeon makes tiny cuts and uses long instruments attached to robotic arms. The robot helps the surgeon see and work inside the body with great precision.

2. Robotic Cancer Surgery

Used when removing tumours in tight or delicate spaces. The robot helps surgeons remove the tumour while trying to protect nearby nerves and organs.

3. Robotic Urological Surgery

Commonly used for prostate, kidney, or bladder surgery. It allows better movement and accuracy in areas that are hard to reach.

4. Robotic Gynecological Surgery

Used for treating conditions like fibroids, pelvic organ prolapse, or removing the uterus (hysterectomy). The robot helps reduce recovery time and pain.

5. Robotic Weight-Loss (Bariatric) Surgery

For patients needing surgery to reduce weight. This can include sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass performed with robotic assistance.

Robotic Surgery Procedure: Step-by-Step

1. Evaluation: The doctor examines your condition and may do imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to plan the surgery.

2. Preparation: You will be told not to eat or drink for a certain time before surgery. Your medications may also be adjusted as advised.

3. Anaesthesia: You will be given general anaesthesia so you are asleep and do not feel pain during the surgery.

4. Small Incisions: The surgeon makes a few small cuts for the robotic arms and camera.

5. Robot Control: The surgeon sits at a console and controls the robot’s arms while watching a 3D view of the operating area.

6. Perform the Surgery: The surgeon uses the robot to remove, repair, or treat the disease.

7. Closing and Recovery: The surgeon closes the tiny incisions. You are taken to a recovery room and watched until the anaesthesia wears off.

Robotic surgery time varies depending on the procedure. Some operations last 1–4 hours or more, based on complexity.