Understanding Robotic Urology Surgery

Urology is a branch of medical science that deals with the diseases and disorders associated with the male and female urinary tract and male reproductive system.

Surgery is one of the primary treatment options for urological diseases, which includes invasive and minimally-invasive procedures. The development of robotic surgery has brought about an exciting and revolutionary change in the field of urologic surgeries.

The highly advanced robotic surgery offers precision which is crucial for complex and intricate urologic procedures. It helps prevent damage to the surrounding nerves, speeds up recovery, and enables an early return to normal activities.

Dr. Neeta Verma, a leading urologist in Bhubaneswar, is an expert in robotic surgery. She offers treatment for various urologic disorders such as kidney stones, incontinence , prostate enlargement, cancers, and pediatric urological problems.

You can consult her for urology surgery in Bhubaneswar at Sunshine Hospital or National Orthopaedic Centre.

Robotic urology surgery is relatively new and people have many queries regarding it. Read on to have a better understanding of this procedure.

Robotic Urology Surgery Overview

Urology is now at the forefront of surgical robotics because precision is vital in these surgeries. The pelvic region is closely packed with organs, blood vessels, and nerves that control erectile and urine function.

Urologists employ robotic or robot-assisted surgery to improve the experience and results of complex surgical procedures.

With tiny incisions, the operating urologist can now access even hard-to-reach places. The specialized technology offers accurate movements and improved magnification. Various benefits make robotic surgery a better option than open and even laparoscopic procedures. These include less blood loss, minimum pain, and less dependency on pain relievers. Additionally, it speeds up recovery and cuts down on hospital stays.

The Robotic System includes the following:

Surgeon’s console:

The interface features a 3D display and surgical handles. As the surgeon rotates the handles, the instrument tips imitate it in real-time.

Depending on your surgical system, the operating surgeon’s hands receive force feedback, and the system either uses a foot paddle or voice activation to control the camera movements.

The information is displayed on a control panel, and the CPU oversees and monitors the machine’s functionality and performance. 

Robotic arms:

It includes a camera arm and three surgical manipulators. With the camera arm assisting in moving the camera unit to maintain a clear field of vision, the manipulators essentially serve as the surgeon’s arms for moving the instruments.

Auxiliary cart:

It consists of light sources, camera units, and synchronizers for camera signal.

Which urologic procedures can be done by robotic systems?

• Pyeloplasty to treat ureteropelvic junction obstruction
• Cystectomy
• Radical nephrectomy
• Partial nephrectomy
• Urinary diversion
• Radical prostatectomy
• Adrenalectomy
• Nephroureterectomy
• Kidney transplantation

How is Robotic Surgery Performed?

During the procedure, the uro-surgeon sits in a controlling console a few feet from the patient, and an assistant surgeon is near the patient.

The surgeon observes the surgical area through a video camera and operates numerous robotic arms from the console that imitates his movements.

The robotic procedure is a better option as it combines a machine’s accuracy and precision with a surgeon’s expertise.

The procedure is conducted through tiny cuts, which makes it less invasive and helps recover faster. Instead of the average 6 to 8 weeks recovery period following traditional open surgery, the majority of patients resume regular activities in 2 to 3 weeks.

Furthermore, less blood loss results in a faster return of stamina and strength.

What are the pros of Robotic Surgery?

Dr. Neeta Verma, one of the best urologist in Bhubaneswar, explains that compared to traditional surgical procedures, robotic surgery has several advantages for both the surgeon and the patient.

Benefits to the surgeon

• The robotic arm’s actions are more precise and offer excellent accuracy. 
• Allows performing surgery in restricted areas within the body.
• A high-resolution camera can produce enlarged 3D images that provide better visualization than naked eyes.
• Allows the surgeon increased depth perception and enhances hand-eye coordination.
• Urologic surgeries are generally long, but with robotics, the chances of fatigue are less.

Benefits to the patients

• Less blood loss
• Reduced risk of complications and infection
• Improves nerve-sparring rate
• Less pain
• Smaller scars
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster recovery
• Improved clinical results
• Better cosmesis

What are the cons of robotic surgery?

• The duration of the procedure may be more than open or laparoscopic surgery.

• In case of complications, the surgeon may have to switch to an open or laparoscopic modality.

• It is expensive than other surgical modalities.

• It must be performed by a surgeon who is an expert in robotics. This surgical technique is very different from open and laparoscopic surgery; therefore, mastering this technique takes specialized knowledge and training.

• Further, robotic urology surgery is not performed in all hospitals. It is mostly available in highly specialized hospitals.

• Also, not all patients are candidates for robotic surgery, and limited surgeries can be performed using the robot.

Before choosing robotic surgery, you can talk to Dr. Neeta Verma about the best options for urology surgery in Bhubaneswar and the risks and benefits of each. She is an expert in all surgical modalities and has extensive hands-on experience working at prestigious international hospitals.