Our Summary

For many years, humans have been fascinated by the idea of using robots, especially in the field of medicine. However, it’s only in the last 30 years that we’ve started to use robots in surgery. The first use of a “robot surgeon” on a human was in 1985. In the 1990s, we developed “master-slave” robots, where a surgeon could control a robot remotely to perform surgery.

Despite not being able to feel what they’re doing, robots have many advantages. They offer 3D vision, steady and enlarged images, and can filter out any shaking from the surgeon’s hands. These benefits help overcome many limitations of traditional keyhole surgery.

Since the da Vinci robot was approved for use, surgeons in America, Europe, and Asia have shown that it’s safe and effective for many different types of surgery. Studies comparing robot and keyhole surgery have shown similar results. However, the high costs and lack of feeling during surgery are major downsides to using robots.

The future of robotic surgery likely includes lowering costs, creating new technology and training programs, and conducting more studies to figure out the best ways to use robots in surgery.

FAQs

  1. When was the first use of a “robot surgeon” on a human?
  2. What are the benefits of using robots in surgery?
  3. What are the downsides of using robots for surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the medical team, such as fasting before the procedure and stopping certain medications. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions with the surgeon before the surgery, and to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following up with regular check-ups can help ensure the best possible outcome after laparoscopic surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic surgery include those with conditions such as:

  • Gallbladder disease
  • Appendicitis
  • Hernias
  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Colorectal conditions
  • Kidney conditions
  • Pancreatic conditions

Overall, laparoscopic surgery is recommended for patients who would benefit from a minimally invasive approach, faster recovery time, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic surgery, a patient will typically undergo a thorough examination and consultation with their surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. They may also undergo pre-operative testing, such as blood tests and imaging studies.

On the day of the surgery, the patient will arrive at the hospital or surgical center and be prepped for the procedure. This may involve changing into a hospital gown, receiving anesthesia, and having a catheter inserted. The surgeon will then make several small incisions in the abdomen to insert the laparoscope and other surgical instruments.

During the surgery, the surgeon will use the laparoscope to visualize the internal organs on a monitor and perform the necessary surgical procedures. Once the surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed with sutures or surgical glue, and the patient will be taken to a recovery room.

After laparoscopic surgery, the patient will be monitored for any complications and may be given pain medication to manage discomfort. They will also receive instructions on how to care for their incisions and when to follow up with their surgeon.

Overall, laparoscopic surgery offers many benefits compared to traditional open surgery, including shorter recovery times, less pain, and smaller scars. However, it is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic surgery include:

  1. What are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery compared to traditional open surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time after laparoscopic surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic surgery?
  4. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic surgery?
  5. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  6. How soon can I return to normal activities after laparoscopic surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  8. Are there any specific preparations I need to make before the surgery?
  9. Will there be any scarring after the surgery, and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  10. What are the success rates of laparoscopic surgery for my specific condition?

Reference

Authors: Leal Ghezzi T, Campos Corleta O. Journal: World J Surg. 2016 Oct;40(10):2550-7. doi: 10.1007/s00268-016-3543-9. PMID: 27177648