When is Robotic Surgery Required for Benign and GI Cancers?

Robotic surgery is preferred when traditional methods like medication, radiation therapy, or open surgery are ineffective or pose higher risks. For benign conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and gallbladder disease, robotic surgery offers safer and quicker recovery options.

In GI cancers, robotic surgery effectively removes tumors in the colon, rectum, pancreas, or stomach. It provides better visualization, greater precision, and less blood loss and scarring compared to traditional surgery. The decision depends on factors such as tumor size, location, overall patient health, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Procedure of Robotic Surgery for Gastric or Benign Cancers

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is pain-free and asleep during surgery.
2. Small Incisions: Several small cuts (less than 1 inch) are made to insert robotic arms and a high-definition camera.
3. Trocars Insertion: The trocars are placed into the incisions, connecting the robotic instruments.
4. Robot Setup: The surgeon controls the robotic arms from a console, viewing a 3D image of the surgical area.
5. Tumor Removal: The tumor or affected tissue is removed with high precision using robotic instruments.
6. Closure & Recovery: The incisions are stitched or sealed, and the patient is monitored post-surgery for recovery.

Preparation for Robotic Surgery for Cancers and Tumors

Prior to robotic surgery, patients undergo comprehensive evaluations including CT, MRI, or PET scans to assess the tumor’s location and spread. Blood tests and other health checks determine fitness for surgery.

• Avoid food and drink for a specific period before surgery.
• Discontinue medications that may increase bleeding risk.
• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol prior to surgery.
• Inform your surgeon of any allergies or chronic conditions.
• Complete bowel preparation as advised by your doctor.

Risks of Robotic Surgery for Cancers and Tumors

Robotic surgery is generally safe, but as with all surgeries, some risks exist. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve or tissue damage, anesthesia reactions, or rare equipment malfunctions. In uncommon cases, pneumothorax (collapsed lung) can occur.

• Minor infection at incision sites
• Bleeding or need for transfusion
• Nerve or tissue injury
• Allergic or breathing reactions to anesthesia
• Equipment malfunction or rare system errors

Benefits of Robotic Surgery for GI Cancers

Robotic surgery represents a medical breakthrough for treating GI cancers with enhanced precision and patient comfort. It allows surgeons to perform complex operations with minimal invasion, leading to faster recovery and improved outcomes.

• Smaller incisions and reduced scarring
• Reduced blood loss
• Faster recovery time
• Higher surgical precision
• Reduced risk of complications
• Enhanced visualization and accuracy
• Improved long-term results