Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery Clinic Q&A

Minimally invasive surgery is a term used to describe various techniques that allow surgeons to operate with less damage to the body compared to traditional open surgery. These approaches are advantageous as they typically result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and fewer complications.

There are various types of minimally invasive surgery, with one of the most common being laparoscopy. When a procedure is performed laparoscopically, the surgeon makes one or more small incisions to insert tiny cameras and surgical tools. The camera provides a clear view of the surgical area on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure with precision.

Minimally invasive surgery offers benefits such as reduced scarring and a lower risk of infection. These surgical techniques can be used for various procedures, ranging from gallbladder removal and hernia repairs to more complex operations like colorectal surgery, neurosurgery, and spinal surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery is often considered safer than traditional open surgery. Due to this, these approaches are often a good option for many patients. Some people who aren’t candidates for open surgery may still be suitable candidates for minimally invasive procedures.

Your surgeon will thoroughly assess your circumstances and medical history to determine if minimally invasive surgery is a safe and effective option for you. They will consider the risks and benefits of all your treatment options to recommend the best surgical approach for your circumstances and help you make an informed decision.

For instance, minimally invasive techniques usually take longer to perform than open surgery and require careful preparation, which is not ideal in emergencies. In addition, certain heart and lung conditions can also affect a person’s suitability for minimally invasive surgery.

Specifically, laparoscopic surgery requires pumping gas into the abdominal cavity to separate the abdominal wall from the organs. In some cases, this can increase the risk of heart and lung complications during the procedure. Therefore, individuals with specific cardiac or respiratory issues may not be good candidates for laparoscopic surgery.

Robotic surgery is an advanced technique that allows for greater precision and control during the procedure, resulting in smaller incisions, less pain, and minimal scarring. Patients who undergo robotic surgery often heal faster compared to those who receive traditional surgery.

Because of the many advantages this approach offers, most patients can return to work and resume normal activities within a couple of weeks. This is significantly shorter than the recovery time for open surgery, which typically takes a few months.

Robotic surgery combines the expertise of the surgeon with the advanced capabilities of technology, leading to more efficient and successful treatment outcomes. If you have questions about robotic surgery or are wondering if this approach is right for you, ask your surgeon during your consultation.

While the terms robotic surgery and minimally invasive surgery are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a distinction between the two. Simply put, robotic surgery is a specific type of minimally invasive surgery. While all robotic surgeries are minimally invasive, not all minimally invasive surgeries are robotic.

In addition to robotic surgery, laparoscopic surgery is another form of minimally invasive surgery that uses small incisions and a camera, but it does not involve robotic assistance. Both methods are considered minimally invasive due to benefits like faster recovery times, reduced risk of infection, and less scarring.

Many surgeons prefer minimally invasive approaches to open surgery. While these techniques are safer and considered less risky than traditional approaches, it’s important to remember that there is still a risk of complications, as with all surgical procedures.

To learn more about robotic surgery or other forms of minimally invasive surgery, schedule a consultation at Phoenix Unified Surgeons to discuss your options and determine the treatment approach that’s best for you. Our experts will assess your needs, medical history, and circumstances to tailor your treatment plan for the best outcomes. We are conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230 Phoenix, AZ 85027. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Phoenix AZ, Sun City AZ, Peoria AZ, Surprise AZ, Glendale AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding areas.