Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery has been part of the armamentarium of surgical procedures over two decades. The same procedures that are performed in gynecologic laparoscopy can be performed by robotic surgery. These include removal of the uterus or hysterectomy, removal of fibroids or myomectomy, removal of ovarian cysts or the ovary, correction of vaginal or uterine prolapse, etc.
Robotic surgery involves placement of ports similar to that of laparoscopy. However the surgeon sits at a console away from the operation table where the patient is situated. The surgery is performed by the surgeon by remote control of instruments which are placed through the ports inside the patient and controlled by robotic arms.
Technically and in terms of effectiveness, speed, safety, outcomes & results both laparoscopy and robotic surgery are similar. However robotic ports are slightly larger than those of laparoscopy and overall time of surgery is more. However, this is compensated by the dexterity of the instruments used in robotic and comfort to the operating surgeon. Robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery complement each other and it is one more option available to the surgeon and the patient after individualization in the field of gynecologic surgery.
