Robotic Surgery in Gynaecology
Over the past 30 years, minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) have been regarded as the most significant surgical advancement. The procedure transformed surgical practice with significant benefits over conventional open surgery: decreased surgical trauma and complications related to cuts, such as infections at the site of incision, pain post surgery and hernia, less hospital stay, and improved aesthetic results.
The introduction of robotic surgery in gynaecology marked a significant shift in surgical practice. Even less experienced laparoscopic surgeons are able to do more complex surgeries successfully on this robotic platform. The robot is increasingly being used in gynecologic oncology to perform hysterectomies and lymphadenectomies. No randomised trials have been performed comparing robotic surgery’s effectiveness and safety with other conventional surgical approaches, even though its use in gynaecology has spread rapidly and widely.
Indeed, conventional laparoscopy is also more beneficial than open surgery, with similar benefits to robotic surgery such as less hospital stay, quick recovery, less blood loss, improved aesthetics and fewer complications. This is because robotic surgery is similar to laparoscopy, with its main difference being the way how the surgeon uses and controls the surgical tools.
However, laparoscopy and other surgical approaches performed through the vagina have certain limitations in case of increased complexity. The robotic approach can challenge both the vaginal approach and laparoscopy because of their limitations, like less visualisation of the operative field and the need for a skilled and experienced surgical assistant.
Robotic technology for Gynecologic surgery was approved by FDA in April 2005. It has become increasingly popular since then. Several hospitals around the world stated that both open hysterectomies and traditional laparoscopic surgeries are reduced as robotic surgeries increase significantly.
In fact, it wouldn’t be inaccurate to state that robotic surgery has fundamentally changed the way women receive surgical care.
In addition to the surgeon’s proficiency, robotics has undoubtedly improved the efficiency of the operating room, as well as the results of the surgery.
Common conditions treated using “Gynecologic Robotic Surgery.”
Using gynecologic robotic surgery, Dr Manjula Anagani , one of the most experienced laparoscopic surgeons and experience in performing robotic surgery, can treat conditions such as:
- Abdominal pain and pelvic pain
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer
- Painful periods
- Heavy bleeding
- Pelvic organ prolapse
Robotic surgery in gynecology includes the following procedures:
Hysterectomy
A surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed. In women, hysterectomy may be performed for a number of reasons, including:
- Uterine fibroids – abnormal growth over the uterus that causes pain, heavy bleeding, and other problems
- Uterine prolapse – a condition in which the uterus slides into the vaginal canal from its normal position
- Endometriosis
- Abnormal and heavy bleeding from the vagina
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Adenomyosis (thickening of the uterus)
Myomectomy — A surgical procedure in which only the uterine fibroids are removed, unlike hysterectomy, where the entire uterus is removed.
Sacrocolpopexy — It is a surgical procedure in which the prolapsed pelvis is repositioned to its normal position.
Radical hysterectomy — this surgery is done to treat cervix or endometrial cancer. It involves the removal of the whole uterus & side tissues, the cervix, and the upper vaginal part.
Surgery to remove complex endometriosis — removal of abnormal tissue formed over the uterus lining, outside the uterine cavity.
Tubal anastomosis — a procedure used to restore the fertility of a woman after tubal ligation (cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes).
Gynecologic Robotic Surgery Procedure
The robotic surgical system consists of:
- A console where the surgeon uses hand controls to operate the scope and other tools and watches the images from the scope on a monitor.
- A robotic cart equipped with arms to hold surgical tools
- A camera is attached to showcase 3D views of the surgical area.
- Wrist tools are used to convert the hand movements of the surgeon into exact micro-movements for doing surgery.
Even the most delicate, intricate procedures can be carried out with the utmost precision by the surgeon sitting at the console. Some people think robotic surgery means the robot independently carries out the complete surgery. It’s not true; the robotic system is entirely under the control of surgeons. The system is non-programmable and can’t perform any movements on its own.
Another essential part of the robotic surgical process is the assistant surgeon who stands beside the patient at the operating table. He manipulates the accessory port manually to assist the surgeon with tasks like suturing.
Gynecologic Robotic Surgery Benefits
Compared to open and laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery offers a number of advantages, such as:
- Reduced need for blood transfusions because blood loss is significantly less
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Minimal scarring
- The risk of infection is less
- More precise surgery
- Recovery very quick
- Less hospital stay
If you have any gynecology problems that require surgery, know more detailed information about this innovative robotic surgery and find out whether it suits you. Consult Dr Manjula Anagani & Dr. V Pareek, Laparoscopic & Bariatric surgeon in Hyderabad, to find precise information. He has hands-on experience and experienced support staff to carry out the procedure in a safe and effective manner. For an appointment, call +91 91-777-77715 and book your slot.
