|
What is a robotic laparoscopic prostatectomy? Robotic surgery for prostate cancer is the latest advancement in minimally invasive technology that deploys the use of robotic instrumentation and 3D imagery of the operating site when removing a cancerous prostate gland through a series of small incisions. In general, robotic prostatectomy surgery yields a shorter recovery period for the patient, and thus a quicker return to everyday activities when compared to traditional open surgical procedures.
Laparoscopic Robotic Prostatectomy’s Role in Prostate Cancer Treatment
Technological advancements in minimally invasive surgery have ushered in a new era of prostate cancer treatment. A prostate gland that was once removed through an invasive incision in the lower abdomen or perineum can now be excised through a series of small incisions using the aid of an endoscope and surgical instrumentation. Using a surgical console, a high-powered vision system, and patient-side robotic instrumentation cart, surgeons guide the movement of robotic arms to remove the prostate and surrounding lymph nodes. Like traditional laparoscopic prostate surgeries, a robotic radical prostatectomy is facilitated through a series of four to six key-hole incisions. This minimally invasive approach to surgery typically results in less operative blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a reduced period of recovery as compared to open procedures. What’s more, the enhanced visualization and improved dexterity made possible by robotic prostatectomy systems—like Intuitive’s® Da Vinci® robotic prostatectomy surgical platform—provides surgeons with even greater control when preserving the surrounding nerve fibers and blood vessels responsible for sexual function.
Robotic Prostate Cancer Surgery—An In-depth Look
As with open and laparoscopic prostate cancer treatments, a robotic prostatectomy is reserved for patients whose cancer is confined and localized to the prostate. During a robotic prostatectomy, a surgeon will remotely operate robotic arms through a surgical console interface. Using two hand-operated controls, the surgeon’s precise movements are scaled and translated in real-time to the robotic arms and attached instrumentation. A robotic arm equipped with a high-powered endoscope provides surgeons with a detailed three-dimensional view of the operating area while other robotic arms containing wristed instrumentation carry out the surgeon’s commands. Through the use of a robotic prostatectomy system, like the Da Vinci® prostate surgery console, surgeons are able to facilitate the actions of a traditional laparoscopic procedure but with the reported added benefit of enhanced visualization, increased range of motion, instrument stability, and precise dexterity.
|
