Robot-assisted surgery represents a new era of surgical innovation. In gynaecology, robotic surgery has a wide range of applications and comes with several advantages over conventional surgical techniques. Dr Mayooran has completed advanced training and is certified to perform robot-assisted gynaecological procedures.
Robotic surgical devices such as the da Vinci Surgical System act as an extension of your surgeon’s hands. Via an operating console, your gynaecologist controls the robotic arms of the system, manipulating the surgical tools with greater dexterity than can be achieved with a human hand.
Open surgical techniques such as a laparotomy (using a large incision in the abdomen to treat conditions in the pelvic area) still play a role in select cases. However, open surgery is associated with certain disadvantages including a longer stay in hospital, increased risk of post-operative complications such as infection and prolonged bleeding, and a longer recovery period.
The majority of women requiring gynaecological surgery will benefit from a minimally invasive approach, which includes techniques such as laparoscopy (to perform pelvic surgery using keyhole incisions through the abdomen) and hysteroscopy (uterine surgery performed endoscopically, via the cervix).
Read more about laparoscopy and hysteroscopy here →
Robot-assisted surgery takes laparoscopic surgery one step further by employing the robotic surgical system to enhance precision of the operation, using the same keyhole incisions and surgical instruments.
Dr Mayooran may offer a robotic surgical approach to treating your condition after his assessment confirming that surgery is the right treatment strategy for you. In most of these situations, you will have the option of choosing between conventional laparoscopy (surgery performed by hand) or robotic surgery.
Uses of robotic surgery in gynaecology include for treatment of:
Robot-assisted gynaecological surgery is not inherently superior to laparoscopy – conventional laparoscopy has demonstrated its effectiveness at managing many gynaecological conditions for the last several decades. For straightforward, routine procedures, the outcomes of robotic surgery are typically similar to laparoscopy.
Robotic surgery may be recommended over laparoscopy if the surgery is particularly complex or delicate.
Robotic surgery comes with all the benefits of a minimally invasive technique, with the added advantages that come with the robotic arms and high-definition screen.
Robot-assisted gynaecological surgery:
From a surgeon’s perspective, the robotic system also allows improved ergonomics as the surgeon can be seated at the console during the procedure. This addresses the common problems of fatigue and discomfort, which can lead to better surgical outcomes.
