Robotic Surgery a Precise Alternative

As an alternative to traditional surgical procedures, robotic surgery is being performed around the country with great success in terms of precision and more. With this method, incisions can be made smaller than with traditional techniques, allowing for a minimally invasive procedure. The robot-like technique is similar to laparoscopic procedures, which rely on tiny cameras, yet utilizes mechanical arm-like parts. These arms work much like human wrists and hands, except have far more precise movement capabilities. The robot is not alone in the operating room, however; a human doctor still oversees everything from a high-tech command post.

During robotic surgery, a surgeon is positioned nearby in order to oversee each step and man a complex set of remote controls. These controls are moved by the well-trained doctor in order to position and move each mechanical wrist and arm, as necessary. There are also nurses and other trained medical technicians in the operating room, as well. As the procedure is being performed, it is viewed by the surgeon and his or her team on a 3-D larger-than-life screen. This gives them a more detailed visual snapshot of everything that's taking place than it would if the operation was being performed manually. With the visibility and the precise movements of the robotic arms, there can be more control and flexibility than with humans manning the scalpels.

In addition to being precise, robotic surgery also decreases some of the side effects and risks associated with traditional operations. Since incisions are smaller, recovery times are shorter, blood loss is reduced, and scars are minimized. Because of the minimal approach, patients get out of the hospital more rapidly and suffer less pain. As with all medical procedures, there are still risks, but overall, the side effects are minimized.

Robotic surgery is now the top technological choice for a variety of operations including pancreatic disorders, abdominal surgery, and various types of cancer treatment. This method has been found to be successful with partial knee replacements, hysterectomies, urologic operations, cardiovascular procedures, and those that involve other systems. Not every patient is a candidate for these procedures, however, so the pros and cons should be discussed with each individual's physician.

Medical advancements continue to move at the speed of light and robotic surgery is one on the fast track to healing. While not every surgeon can perform the technique and not every hospital has the proper equipment, many of them do. If you're interested in having your operation performed by a robot, it would be wise to find the doctor and facility near you that can help you meet these goals.