Our Summary

This paper reviews the new da Vinci SP (single port) robotic surgical system. There isn’t a lot of detailed research on this system yet, and most studies have only looked at a small number of patients. But so far, the system appears to be safe and effective for kidney and pelvic surgeries when used by experienced robotic surgeons. There’s still a need for more extensive and long-term research. The system is currently expensive and takes some time to learn, which may limit its use in many healthcare settings. However, as updates are made and other companies release their own robotic surgical systems, the cost may decrease and the system may become more widely used.

FAQs

  1. What is the da Vinci SP robotic surgical system?
  2. What types of surgeries has the da Vinci SP system been used for?
  3. What are the current limitations of the da Vinci SP system?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about robotic surgery is to make sure to choose a surgeon who is experienced and skilled in using the robotic surgical system. It is important for patients to have confidence in their surgeon’s abilities to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, patients should follow their surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions closely to optimize their recovery and healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from robotic surgery include those undergoing complex surgeries in the areas of urology, gynecology, colorectal surgery, and thoracic surgery. Robotic surgery can offer advantages such as reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and improved precision compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, patients who are not good candidates for traditional open surgery due to factors such as obesity or previous surgeries may also benefit from robotic surgery. Ultimately, the decision to recommend robotic surgery for a patient will depend on their specific medical condition and the expertise of the surgical team.

Timeline

Before robotic surgery:

  1. Consultation with a surgeon to determine if robotic surgery is the best option for the patient’s condition.
  2. Pre-operative testing and preparation, which may include blood tests, imaging scans, and other assessments.
  3. Discussion of the procedure, risks, and benefits with the surgeon.
  4. Consent for surgery is obtained from the patient.
  5. Anesthesia is administered before the surgery begins.

During robotic surgery:

  1. The surgeon controls the robotic system from a console, using high-tech instruments to perform the procedure with precision.
  2. The robotic arms make small incisions in the body, reducing the risk of infection and blood loss.
  3. The surgeon has a magnified view of the surgical site, allowing for greater accuracy and control.
  4. The procedure is completed, and the robotic system is removed from the body.

After robotic surgery:

  1. The patient is monitored in the recovery room for a period of time to ensure there are no complications.
  2. Pain management and wound care are provided as needed.
  3. The patient may be discharged from the hospital the same day or after a short stay, depending on the procedure.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and address any concerns.
  5. The patient can return to normal activities gradually as advised by the surgeon.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific training and experience do you have with using the da Vinci SP robotic surgical system?

  2. What are the potential benefits of robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery for my specific condition?

  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with robotic surgery?

  4. How long is the recovery time typically for robotic surgery compared to traditional surgery?

  5. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions I should follow for robotic surgery?

  6. Will my insurance cover the cost of robotic surgery, or will there be additional out-of-pocket expenses?

  7. Are there any long-term effects or limitations I should be aware of after undergoing robotic surgery?

  8. Will I have a dedicated team of healthcare professionals assisting during the robotic surgery procedure?

  9. How will you communicate with me during the surgery to ensure I am informed and comfortable?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider besides robotic surgery for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Garbens A, Morgan T, Cadeddu JA. Journal: Curr Urol Rep. 2021 Feb 8;22(4):22. doi: 10.1007/s11934-021-01040-2. PMID: 33554322