Robotic Surgery
So, what is robotic surgery? Read on to learn more about one of the greatest surgical innovations of our generation.
Da Vinci Xi Robot
Dr. Jarrard utilizes Intuitive Surgical’s fourth generation surgical robotic system, the Da Vinci Xi.
Don’t worry, this is not a fully autonomous system that functions on its own! All movements of the robot are 100% under the control of the operating surgeon.
Why use the robot?
The robotic platform offers all the same benefits of laparoscopic surgery and more! The robotic instruments actually have articulating wrists, which allows much more precise movements by the surgeon. Want a demonstration? Click the button below to watch my partner peel the skin off a grape!
What surgery can we offer on the robot?
Gastric bypass
This procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes. Four to five small incisions are required. Most patients are discharged the day after surgery.
Sleeve gastrectomy
The sleeve can be performed with three or four incisions and takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Most patients are discharged the day after surgery.
Colon resection
There are several reasons a colon has to be removed including diverticulitis and cancer. Details of the surgery are determined by the need for the operation, but generally takes less than 2 hours and is done with four incisions.
Abdominal wall reconstruction
Complex hernia repair sometimes requires a separation of muscular components. This procedure is traditionally done with an open approach, but can now be offered robotically with six small incisions. Drains are rarely necessary and most patients are discharged the day after surgery.
Hiatal hernia and reflux surgery
Hiatal hernia repair is most commonly performed along with a reflux operation. This includes fundoplication, LINX, and even gastric bypass. This can be done robotically with four incisions and usually takes about an hour. Patients are discharged same day or day after surgery.
Much more!
While the robot initially had a limited role in general surgery, it is more commonly being utilized for a spectrum of general surgery cases. This includes surgery for the stomach, intestine, spleen, adrenal glands, hernia, and gallbladder.