Robotic Surgery 101

Have you heard about robotic surgery, also known as robot-assisted surgery? This type of surgery allows highly-trained surgeons to use more precise tools for sensitive jobs. In this post, we’re going to discuss some answers to the following questions: is robotic surgery better than regular surgery, what is the most common robotic surgery, and what are the cons of robotic surgery?

X Most Common Questions About Robotic Surgery:

What Is Robotic Surgery?

As we hinted above, robotic surgery is simply a surgical procedure that is assisted by robotic tools. Most often the lead surgeon has many years of experience with robotic assistance and is well-versed in using these tools to help the surgery go more smoothly than it might otherwise go without robotic assistance. Robotic assistance usually is helpful for laparoscopic procedures and other minimally invasive procedures.

Is Robotic Surgery Better Than Regular Surgery?

For some, highly-technical surgeries, robotic assistance can help to reduce potentially life-threatening mistakes. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that robotic surgery is better, per sé. Robot-assisted surgical techniques have a time and place, usually when the operating site is in a sensitive location like the brain, around critical arteries, or occurs in small, tight spaces.

What Is the Most Common Robotic Surgery?

Some of the most common surgeries that use robotic assistance are:

  • Mass removals for cancer that have grown around important structures (arteries, nerves, and other organs)
  • Gallbladder removal
  • Bypasses for heart surgeries

What Are the Pros & What Are the Cons of Robotic Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved in robotic surgery. The cons mainly come from the risks associated with anesthesia:

  • Reactions to medications used during surgery
  • Breathing problems during general anesthesia
  • Bleeding and infection are always a small risk

Aside from these cons, robotic surgery is generally safer due to a lower risk of infection and bleeding than with regular surgeries. There is also a smaller risk of damage to nearby tissues, due to the precise nature of robot assistance. Other pros include:

  • Less pain at the incision when recovering
  • Shorter recovery time in general
  • Smaller scars

Who Is a Good Candidate for Robotic Surgeries?

Anyone who can tolerate being under general anesthesia and who does not have blood clotting disorders is a good candidate for robotic surgery, just like regular surgeries. Always talk to your doctor and surgeon before you go under the knife. Giving an accurate, full medical history will ensure that your care team gives you the options that are best for you.

Suncoast Surgical Associates: Your Choice for Robotic Surgery in Tampa

Here at Suncoast Surgical Associates, we offer the following robotic procedures: inguinal hernia surgery, ventral hernia surgery, colon resections, and fundoplication surgery. Our experienced surgeons may also recommend robotic techniques for other surgeries if they feel there is a need for them. If your doctor has recommended surgery for your condition, ask for a referral to Suncoast Surgical Associates today!


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