Our Summary

This research paper reviews the current evidence on the effects of using minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery in treating different types of cancer, including thoracic, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, and genitourinary. The evidence comes from various sources including journal articles, research reports, scientific papers, and clinical guidelines.

The conclusion of the paper is that minimally invasive cancer surgery is an essential part of comprehensive cancer care. The current evidence suggests that these procedures provide the same, if not better, results in selected surgical outcomes without negatively affecting the overall cancer treatment results. However, there isn’t much evidence on how these less invasive procedures impact the patient’s functional outcomes and quality of life.

For nursing practice, the paper implies that care around the time of surgery in minimally invasive cancer surgery should focus on preparing patients and their families for a shorter hospital stay, with continued support for recovery after being discharged.

FAQs

  1. What is the impact of minimally invasive, robotic-assisted cancer surgery on surgical outcomes and quality of life?
  2. Does minimally invasive cancer surgery compromise oncologic outcomes?
  3. What should perioperative nursing care focus on in minimally invasive cancer surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about minimally invasive surgery is that it typically results in less pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery. This can lead to a quicker return to normal activities and a better overall quality of life during the recovery process. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s postoperative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for minimally invasive surgery include those with thoracic, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, and genitourinary cancers. These patients may benefit from minimally invasive procedures due to potential advantages in surgical outcomes, such as shorter hospital stays and potentially superior oncologic outcomes. However, it is important to note that there is a lack of evidence on the impact of minimally invasive procedures on functional outcomes and quality of life. Perioperative nursing care in minimally invasive cancer surgery should focus on preparing patients and their families for shorter hospital stays and providing support for postoperative recovery.

Timeline

Before minimally invasive surgery:

  1. Consultation with the surgeon to discuss the surgical procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
  2. Preoperative testing and evaluation to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for minimally invasive surgery.
  3. Preoperative education on what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
  4. Preoperative preparation, including fasting before the surgery and following any other preoperative instructions provided by the healthcare team.

After minimally invasive surgery:

  1. Recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) before being transferred to a hospital room or discharged home.
  2. Monitoring of vital signs and pain management in the immediate postoperative period.
  3. Early ambulation and physical therapy to aid in recovery and prevent complications.
  4. Discharge planning and instructions on wound care, medication management, and follow-up appointments.
  5. Continued recovery at home, with regular follow-up visits with the healthcare team to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  6. Gradual return to normal activities and lifestyle, with guidance from the healthcare team on resuming physical activity and work duties.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential benefits of minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional open surgery for my specific type of cancer?
  2. What are the potential risks or complications associated with minimally invasive surgery?
  3. How experienced are you in performing minimally invasive procedures for my specific type of cancer?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and postoperative care plan for minimally invasive surgery?
  5. How will minimally invasive surgery affect my long-term oncologic outcomes compared to traditional open surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation) following minimally invasive surgery?
  7. How will minimally invasive surgery impact my quality of life and functional outcomes in the long term?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after undergoing minimally invasive surgery?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments or imaging scans after minimally invasive surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with any additional resources or support services to help me prepare for and recover from minimally invasive surgery?

Reference

Authors: Sun V, Fong Y. Journal: Semin Oncol Nurs. 2017 Feb;33(1):23-36. doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2016.11.003. Epub 2017 Jan 3. PMID: 28062330