Designed for precision and versatility, the da Vinci Surgical System provides a trained surgeon with precision, stability, and consistency far exceeding what might be achieved in the small confines of a minimally invasive procedure.
The da Vinci Robot, or da Vinci Surgical System, is a robotic surgical system used for minimally invasive surgical procedures.
There are several models of the system in operation around the world; the most advanced model, the da Vinci Xi, adds additional control of the OR, enhanced visuals and instrumentation, and automation and guidance systems designed to further enhance the efficacy and efficiency of the controlling surgeon.
Uses
Robotic systems like the da Vinci Xi are used in minimally invasive surgeries for nearly every part of the body—and for a truly astounding number of conditions. Within urology alone, da Vinci robots are popular in treatments for conditions such as:
- Cancers of the prostate, kidney, bladder, and adrenal systems
- Female incontinence
- Vesicoureteral reflux
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia
- Uretal stricture
Example Procedures
Urological procedures frequently or commonly performed via da Vinci systems include, but are not limited to:
- Prostatectomy
- Partial nephrectomy
- Cystectomy
- Pyeloplasty
- Lymph node dissection
- Sascrospinous suspension
- Vesicovaginal fistula repair
- Uretal reimplantation
What to Expect
Since da Vinci is a tool for minimally invasive surgical procedures, that means you’ll likely be back at home in a few days at most, and back to normal life in a few weeks, versus the potential months of recovery from a traditional surgical procedure.
The specifics of the procedure will depend on what’s being treated, but in general a patient treated with a da Vinci system should expect to be under general anesthetic.
During the procedure, your surgeon will stand at a console with instrumental controls, visuals of the interior of your body, and other tools. Your surgery will take place through a small incision, with four robotic arms working under the control of surgeon to perform your procedure.
Robotic surgery continues to grow as a preferred approach to surgery, especially in urology where many of the most common procedures can be readily performed as minimally invasive treatments.