Advancements in Robotic Surgery: What Patients Need to Know

Robotic surgery is one of the most innovative advancements in health and wellness. For many patients and physicians, the development of robotic-assisted surgery has changed the standards of care. Robotic surgery has existed since 2001, but it has gained widespread popularity in recent years due to growing awareness, associated benefits, and significant technological advancements. 

The surgeries conducted are minimally invasive, resulting in less trauma for the patient. Therefore, patients experience lesser blood loss, reduced pain, quicker recovery, and smaller incisions. So, scroll down to learn everything about the benefits and future of robotic surgery in healthcare.

What Is Robotic Surgery? 

Robotic surgery is often known as robot-assisted surgery. It is a medical technique that allows surgeons to precisely, flexibly, and controllably perform a range of complex surgeries. The first robotic surgery was carried out for neurosurgical biopsies in 1985 using the PUMA 560. The mechanism has been changed and is now used in several surgical specialities, especially urology.

Is Robotic Surgery Safe? 

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is safe and is carried out through small incisions. It often acts as an alternative technique for some open surgeries. The most common and widely used clinical robotic surgical system consists of a camera arm and mechanical arms that are equipped with surgical instruments.

The surgeon sits at a computer device (console) close to the operating table and manipulates the arms. The console provides the surgeon with a magnified, 3D, high-definition picture of the surgical site. The head surgeon directs other team members on the patient's side who also help during the procedure.

Advancements in Robotic Technology - Da Vinci Surgical System

The field of robotic surgery has seen remarkable advancements in recent years, including the Da Vinci System. The Da Vinci Surgical System from Intuitive Surgical is a well-known and practical innovation. So, how does the Da Vinci System work? The Da Vinci system has several robotic arms that can be used to perform surgery. 

Compared to conventional laparoscopic devices, these arms offer a greater range of motion and accurately replicate the surgeon's hand movements. In the operating room, the surgeons operate the robotic arms from a surgical console. In addition to hand controls that enable the surgeon to handle the instruments precisely, the console provides a three-dimensional picture of the surgical field. 

A thorough view of the surgery site is provided by high-definition cameras on the robotic arms. Several surgical specialities, including urology, gynaecology, general surgery, and heart surgery, have used the Da Vinci system. Its effectiveness is attributed to its capacity to improve surgical accuracy, reduce invasiveness, and accelerate patient recovery.

Other Competing Systems

Although the Da Vinci system is still the industry leader, several new competitors and alternative robotic surgical systems have emerged. To offer substitute options for minimally invasive surgery, Medtronic, Stryker, and Titan Medical have created robotic platforms. 

These competitor systems promote innovation and competition in robotic surgery by giving patients and healthcare professionals more options for robotic-assisted surgeries. These alternatives support the continuous improvement and development of robotic surgical technology.

What Are The Main Types of Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery has permeated several surgical specialities, providing distinct advantages for specific procedures:

Orthopaedic Surgery 

Robotic-assisted joint replacements, total knee arthroplasty, spinal surgery, and total hip arthroplasty have become more and more popular because they allow surgeons to execute minimally invasive treatments more precisely and accurately, which speeds up recovery and improves the effectiveness of implants.

Urology

Robotic prostatectomy offers a minimally invasive method of Prostatectomy, Nephrectomy, and Pyeloplasty, decreasing blood loss and pain, as well as hospital stays, all while preserving continence and sexual function.

Gynaecology

Compared to open techniques, robotic-assisted hysterectomies and other complex gynaecological treatments, such as ovarian cystectomy and Myomectomy, provide smaller incisions, quicker recovery periods, and better surgical outcomes.

Head and Neck Surgery

A less invasive technique for treating thyroid and parathyroidectomies, as well as head and neck cancers, is transoral robotic surgery (TORS). It provides faster healing times, less postoperative pain, and better access to restricted areas. Robotic devices also enable precise targeting of hyperactive parathyroid glands.

General Surgery

From gallbladder removal to hernia repair, robotic surgery is revolutionizing minimally invasive operations in the field, resulting in a faster return to regular activities, reduced pain, and shorter hospital stays.

Cardiothoracic Surgery

With the advent of robotics, complex heart and lung operations may now be carried out with more dexterity and visibility. Surgeons can precisely execute delicate procedures like Coronary artery bypass grafting, Mitral valve repair/replacement, and Atrial fibrillation ablation.

The Future of Robotic Surgery

The future of robotic surgery looks quite promising. We can expect more advancements in this field. Shortly, robot-assisted procedures and surgeries may even become widespread, according to some experts. Similarly, robotic surgical systems are expected to become more accessible and affordable as there is an increased interest in the field. The following are some specific predictions for the next several years:

• Integration of Artificial Intelligence: To help surgeons make decisions, optimize surgical plans, and anticipate possible complications, robotic systems are integrating AI algorithms.
• Remote Surgery: Imagine a doctor performing surgery on a patient who is located kilometres away! By removing geographical restrictions and expanding access to specialist care, telepresence technology is opening the door for remote robotic surgery.
• Nanorobotics: Small robots that can perform the least invasive cellular treatments are being developed for sensitive procedures inside the human body.

Robotic surgery is a paradigm advancement in surgical care despite ongoing issues, including cost and training. The technology has the potential to simplify healthcare and enhance patient outcomes. The technique is going to bring in a new era of minimally invasive procedures and surgical precision as it develops and becomes more widely available.

Get Rid of Your Problem with Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery!

The advancement of robotic-assisted surgery has transformed modern medicine by providing unparalleled precision, reduced recovery periods, and improved patient outcomes. As technology advances, robotic surgery will become increasingly important in determining the future direction of healthcare. 

Patients who require robotic surgery can now capitalize on Apollo Spectra's precision and efficiency, as well as the expertise of its qualified surgeons. Being among the best hospitals for robotic surgery, we provide top-notch medical treatment, modern facilities, and best practices in healthcare administration. Book an appointment today!