Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Gynecology
When medication and non-invasive procedures are unable to relieve symptoms, surgery remains the accepted and most effective treatment for a range of gynecologic conditions. These include, but are not limited to, cervical and uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse, and menorrhagia or excessive bleeding.
Traditional open gynecologic surgery, using a large incision for access to the uterus and surrounding anatomy, has for many years been the standard approach to many gynecologic procedures. Yet open surgery can bring significant pain, trauma, a long recovery process and threat to surrounding organs and nerves. For women facing gynecologic surgery, the period of pain, discomfort and extended time away from normal daily activities that usually follows traditional surgery can understandably cause significant anxiety.
Fortunately, less invasive options are available. Some gynecologic procedures enable surgeons to access the target anatomy using a vaginal approach, which may not require an external incision. But for complex hysterectomies and other gynecologic procedures, robot-assisted surgery may be the most effective, least invasive treatment option. Through tiny, 1-2 cm incisions, surgeons can operate with greater precision and control, minimizing the pain and risk associated with large incisions while increasing the likelihood of a fast recovery and excellent clinical outcomes.
As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is unique to each patient and procedure. Robotic-assisted surgery is considered safe and effective, but may not be appropriate for everyone. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as the benefits and risks.
(3 person Single site graphic)
Robotic-Assisted Procedures
- Single site hysterectomy (link to: http://www.mclaren.org/lansing/RoboticSurgeryGynecologicGL.aspx)
- Adnexal mass removal
- Bilateral salpingo-oophererctomy
- Endometreosis resection
- Hysterectomy
- Myomectomy
- Ovarian cystectomy
- Radical hysterectomy
- Sacrolcolpopexy
- Gynecological cancer
- Unilateral salpingo-oopherectomy
Robotic Surgery Risks
As with all types of surgeries, there are risks associated with robotic surgeries and results vary from person to person. Be sure to talk about your specific situation with your physician and surgeon before deciding if robotic-assisted surgery is right for you.