Robotic Urologic Surgery
Surgery is often used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the organs of the male reproductive system and urinary tract. Given the sensitive nature of this area, many men are apprehensive about undergoing major surgery to treat their condition. Traditional urologic surgery requires large incisions to access the pelvic organs and may cause severe pain and long recovery times. There may also be long-term effects on continence and sexual function. Robotic urologic surgery can help ease common concerns by providing a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional surgery.
Candidates for Robotic Urologic Surgery
Robotic urologic surgery may be used to treat:
- Prostate cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney disorders
Robotic Urologic Surgery Techniques
Prostatectomy, cystectomy, and kidney surgery are all urological procedures that can be performed through robotic-assisted surgical techniques.
The da Vinci Surgical System®
Robotic-assisted surgery can be performed with the da Vinci Surgical System®, a state-of-the-art console that provides the advantages of minimally invasive techniques along with more precise procedures. The da Vinci Surgical System allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through robotic arms that mimic the movement of their own. These arms are inserted into the body through tiny incisions and then guided to the area to be treated. The surgeon can view the area through a lens in the console that offers a three-dimensional, magnified view, allowing for more precise procedures.
Benefits of Robotic Urologic Surgery
The da Vinci Surgical System offers patients:
- Smaller incisions
- Less pain
- Less scarring
- Less blood loss
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter recovery time
While robotic surgery offers many advantages over open and laparoscopic techniques, this method may not be suitable for every patient. It is important that patients discuss treatment options with their doctor who will assess their overall health condition to find out if they can benefit from robotic urologic surgery.
