Robotic Surgery using the 'da Vinci' Surgical System
Da Vinci robotic surgery is the most advanced surgical technology available today. It represents the culmination of decades of scientific and surgical innovation. Robotic surgery is the ultimate form of laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery. Using the Robot, surgeons are able to perform most surgical procedures through small incision on the abdomen instead of using a traditional laparotomy (large abdominal incision).
Dr. Hunter is a trained daVinci surgeon. Dr. Hunter has performed more than 100 Robotic surgeries in Harlingen, and is a local and national instructor. To date Dr. Hunter has performed more than half of all robotic surgeries in Cameron County, more than any other surgeon at Valley Baptist Hospital. She is also a proctor for daVinci trainees.
For more information regarding the da Vinci surgical system please visit the Intuitive Surgical website: www.davincisurgery.com
Frequently Asked Questions:
How is 'da Vinci' Surgery different?
Conventional
gynecologic and general surgery is performed through a 6-12 inch
incision on the abdominal wall. This large incision allows for
excellent visualization of the operative field and permits surgeons to
operate on the pelvic and abdominal organs with direct contact.
The disadvantage of conventional surgery is that the patient is left
with a large abdominal scar, has a long hospital stay, and prolonged
recovery.
Laparoscopic surgery is performed through small keyhole incisions on the abdomen. A small telescopic camera (laparoscope) is placed through the belly button (umbilicus) and allows for indirect two-dimensional visualization of the entire abdomen and pelvis. Surgery is performed with long narrow instruments that are placed through other small keyhole incisions on the abdominal wall. The end of the instrument (distal tip) can open, close and rotate, but does not provide any additional range of motion. Because of these limitations, laparoscopic surgical proficiency in complicated procedures is very difficult to achieve.
Da
Vinci Surgery is an advanced type of Laparoscopic surgery. The da
Vinci laparoscope contains two separate cameras. The two images
are superimposed at the surgeon's operative terminal, which creates a
binocular image, and provides true 3-D visualization of the operative
field. The robotic arm holds the laparoscope which allows the
surgeon direct control of the surgical image (instead of having to rely
on the surgical assistant). The surgical instruments are
controlled by the surgeon at the distal tip, and have the same free
range of motion as the surgeon's wrist. This Endowrist allows for
surgeons to perform surgery laparoscopically with the exact same ease
and precision as though their hands were actually inside the
abdomen. These technological advances offer all of the following
advantages over laparoscopic surgery:
- Better visualization
- Better instrumentation allowing for more precise surgical dissection
- Better surgical dexterity simplifying complex surgical procedures
- Easier and faster suturing
- Surgeon's control of the robotic arms allows for less dependence on the surgical assistant
- Permits general GYN surgeons to perform basic GYN surgery laparoscopically without extensive advanced training
- Allows specialists to perform difficult cases laparoscopically
- Better ergonomics allows for decreased surgeon fatigue
What types of surgical procedures can be done with the da Vinci Robot?
- Hysterectomy
- Removal of Fibroid tumors (Myomectomy)
- Removal of Ovarian cysts, ovarian tumors
- Infertility surgery (tubal reanastamosis and correction of abnormal tube)
- Endometriosis surgery
- Prolapse surgery suspension of fallen vaginal apex (Sacral-colpopexy) (Pelvic prolapse)
What questions should I ask my doctor about Robotic Surgery?
Keep in mind that conventional laparotomy, laparoscopy, and da Vinci surgery all fall within the standard of care, and each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Your physician should be able to explain these details to your satisfaction. Every surgery, and every patient is different, and you should discuss each of these surgical options with your physician.
When you have a condition which requires surgery, it can be a very difficult and frightening time in your life. You must feel completely contented with, and confident in your physician. If you are comfortable with your doctor, than any of the above options should be satisfactory. However if your physician is uncomfortable with or irritated by discussing these options you should seek a second opinion.
You should ask your physician the following questions:
- What type of surgery do you think is best for me and why?
- How many laparoscopic or Robotic procedures have you done?
- If we schedule Robotic Surgery, what are the chances that I will end up having an open incision to complete the surgery. Or: What is your Conversion Rate? (for example: Dr. Hunter's Conversion Rate is less than 2%.)
If we schedule Robotic Surgery, what are the chances that I will end up having an open incision to complete the surgery. Or: What is your Conversion Rate? (for example: Dr. Hunter's Conversion Rate is less than 2%.)
Is the robotic surgery covered by my insurance?
Yes. If your insurance carrier approves the surgery, it can be performed by laparotomy, laparoscopy, or da Vinci. If surgery is indicated, we will contact your insurance company to verify benefits and policy coverage.