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What is a robotic laparoscopic prostatectomy? Robotic surgery for prostate cancer is 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.
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