About da Vinci Robotics Surgery
The da Vinci Xi surgical system at Phelps Health uses advanced robotic, computer and optical technologies to assist surgeons with their operations. Phelps Health surgeons have been using da Vinci robotics since the fall of 2017.
Robotic surgery is a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) procedure, with an added layer of technology. The robot does not act on its own, and the robotic system’s movements are controlled by surgeons.
The da Vinci Xi surgical system can assist with the following types of surgeries and procedures:
- Hernia repairs
- Hysterectomy
- Gall bladder procedures
- Colorectal procedures
- Other surgeries of the abdomen
One of the features of the da Vinci Xi surgical system is its high-definition 3D vision capability. This allows the surgeon access to special instruments and computer software to operate with enhanced vision, precision, smoothness and control. The da Vinci instruments have mechanical wrists that bend and rotate to mimic the movements of the human wrist.
Studies of the da Vinci surgical system have shown many benefits compared to open surgery. Some of these include:
- Shorter hospital stays
- Fewer complications
- Less blood loss
- Faster recovery
- Less need for narcotic pain medicine after operations
- Smaller incisions associated with minimal scarring
Only a physician can determine whether an operation using da Vinci robotics is appropriate for a patient’s situation.