Our Summary

This research paper talks about different types of robotic devices used in urologic surgery, or operations involving the urinary tract. Some robots mentioned include the da Vinci, Avatera, Hinotori, Revo-i, Senhance, Versius, and Surgenius.

These robots are either operated by doctors from a distance (telemanipulator systems) or are handheld devices doctors use during the procedure. They are mainly used for less invasive surgeries, including endoscopic procedures (which involves inserting a tube into the body to view organs).

The paper also discusses future developments in robotic technology for surgeries. This includes improving haptic systems, which would allow surgeons to feel physical responses from the robot. Other advancements include making smaller robots (miniaturization and microrobotics), improving the visual feedback from the robot to provide clearer, more detailed images, and developing robots that can operate independently.

FAQs

  1. What are some of the most commonly used robotic devices for urologic surgery?
  2. What are some future trends in robotic innovations for urologic surgeries?
  3. What are the benefits of using robotic devices in urologic surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that robotic surgery offers many potential benefits, such as smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery time, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgery. It is important for patients to discuss with their doctor if robotic surgery is a suitable option for their specific condition and to ask any questions they may have about the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from robotic surgery include those with urologic conditions such as prostate cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, urinary tract obstructions, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Robotic surgery can also be recommended for patients who require minimally invasive procedures and quicker recovery times, as well as for patients who may not be candidates for traditional open surgeries due to factors such as obesity or previous abdominal surgeries. Additionally, patients who prefer the potential benefits of robotic surgery, such as reduced blood loss, lower risk of infection, and shorter hospital stays, may also be recommended for this type of procedure.

Timeline

Before robotic surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a medical condition that requires surgical intervention.
  2. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider, including the option of robotic surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes preoperative testing and evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for robotic surgery.
  4. Patient meets with the robotic surgery team to discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits.
  5. Patient undergoes informed consent process and schedules the surgery.

After robotic surgery:

  1. Patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center on the day of surgery.
  2. Patient is prepped for surgery, including anesthesia administration.
  3. Robotic surgery is performed by the surgical team using the telemanipulator system.
  4. Patient is monitored closely during and after the surgery for any complications.
  5. Patient is transferred to the recovery room and then to a hospital room for postoperative care.
  6. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the immediate postoperative period.
  7. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are stable and able to care for themselves at home.
  8. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for postoperative appointments and monitoring of their recovery progress.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of robotic surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. How experienced are you in performing robotic surgery for this particular procedure?
  3. What are the potential benefits of robotic surgery compared to traditional surgical methods?
  4. What are the potential risks or complications associated with robotic surgery?
  5. How long is the recovery time after robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional testing or preparation before undergoing robotic surgery?
  7. How many robotic surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. Will there be a team of healthcare professionals assisting during the robotic surgery?
  9. What is the expected outcome or prognosis following robotic surgery for my condition?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider besides robotic surgery?

Reference

Authors: Alip SL, Kim J, Rha KH, Han WK. Journal: Urol Clin North Am. 2022 Feb;49(1):23-38. doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2021.07.008. Epub 2021 Oct 25. PMID: 34776052