Our Summary

This study looked at the effectiveness of using a joystick-guided robot, called Soloassist II®, during laparoscopic surgery to repair inguinal hernias. The researchers compared 182 surgeries, 82 of which were assisted by a human, and 100 of which used the Soloassist. They found that the robot did not cause any complications and did not require extra preparation time before surgery. The surgeries with the Soloassist were completed faster than those with human assistants, although the difference was not significant. In all, the study suggests that the Soloassist can be a useful tool in these types of surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What is the Soloassist II® robot used for in this study?
  2. Were there any complications caused by the use of the Soloassist II® during the surgeries?
  3. Was there a significant difference in the time taken to complete surgeries with the Soloassist II® compared to those with human assistants?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing laparoscopic hernia repair that the use of a joystick-guided robot, like the Soloassist II®, can assist in the surgery and potentially lead to a faster procedure with no added complications. This technology can help improve the overall outcome of the surgery and provide a more efficient and precise repair of the hernia.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair include those with inguinal hernias, femoral hernias, umbilical hernias, and incisional hernias. Laparoscopic hernia repair is often recommended for patients who are looking for a minimally invasive approach to surgery, have a lower risk of complications, and have smaller hernias that are suitable for this type of procedure. Patients with certain medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications with traditional open hernia repair may also be recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic hernia repair, a patient may experience symptoms such as groin pain, a visible bulge in the abdomen, or discomfort when lifting heavy objects. They may also undergo diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or CT scans to confirm the presence of a hernia.

During laparoscopic hernia repair, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to allow the surgeon to view the hernia. The hernia is then repaired using small instruments and mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall.

After laparoscopic hernia repair, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the incision sites. They may also be advised to limit physical activity for a period of time to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon may be scheduled to monitor recovery and ensure that the hernia has been successfully repaired. Overall, laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How does laparoscopic hernia repair compare to traditional open hernia repair in terms of recovery time, pain, and outcomes?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic hernia repair?
  3. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic hernia repair surgeries?
  4. Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
  5. How long will it take for me to recover and return to normal activities after the surgery?
  6. Are there any specific post-operative instructions I should follow to ensure a successful recovery?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or procedures before the surgery?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with laparoscopic hernia repair that I should be aware of?
  10. Can you explain the role of the Soloassist II® robot in the surgery and how it may benefit me as a patient?

Reference

Authors: Ohmura Y, Suzuki H, Kotani K, Teramoto A. Journal: Langenbecks Arch Surg. 2019 Jun;404(4):495-503. doi: 10.1007/s00423-019-01793-y. Epub 2019 May 25. PMID: 31129765