What is robotic assisted surgery?
Robot assisted surgery, or robotic surgery, allows A/Prof Pilgrim to perform various complex procedures using the da Vinci Xi surgical system. The surgical system includes a camera, mechanical arms with surgical instruments, and is operated by A/Prof Pilgrim at a separate console that provides a high-definition, magnified, 3-D view of the surgery site. This world leading robotic surgery system translates A/Prof Pilgrim’s hand movements in real time, but with a greater range of motion, making it possible for him to operate through a few small incisions with increased dexterity and precision than at standard keyhole surgery.
da Vinci Xi Surgical System
In 2000, the da Vinci Surgery System broke new ground by becoming the first robotic surgery system approved by the FDA for general laparoscopic surgery. This was the first time the FDA approved an all-encompassing system of surgical instruments and camera/scopic utensils.
Benefits of Robotic Assisted Pancreatic Surgery
Robotic surgeries are a form of minimally invasive surgery. As with all minimally invasive surgery many benefits exist compared to open surgery such as:
- Few complications (infection)
- Less pain
- Quicker recovery times (less time spent in the hospital)
- Smaller, less noticeable scars
As stomach and oesophageal surgery can be complex, the robotic approach may have advantages over standard keyhole laparoscopic techniques because of the improved magnification and stability the robotic platform can provide. Especially for surgery like Heller myotomy and Fundoplication, precise and magnified vision of the LES muscle and the hiatus of the diaphragm where the oesophagus passes to join the stomach may be of particular benefit to make the surgery safer and more effective.
If you would like to know more about robotic assisted pancreatic surgery options, you can book an appointment online now or call our practice on (03) 9509 4811 to book an appointment.