When it comes to treating cancer, the goal is to find the safest treatment option that provides the best long-term outcome for patients. Today, that often means robotic surgery.
The da Vinci Surgical System, was first accredited by the Federal Drug Administration in 2000 and has improved significantly since its original rendition. This high-tech system allows the surgeon to perform highly complex and intricate procedures through small “keyhole” incisions. A tiny, high-definition three-dimensional camera and several surgical instruments are introduced through the abdomen or chest. Working at a control panel next to the operating table, the surgeon controls the robot’s arms, mimicking the movement of the human hand.
Today, the robotic platform can be used to treat a number of cancers, including gastric, colon, pancreatic, liver and rectal.
The main advantage of robotic surgery is a greater ability to perform technically difficult operations with more accuracy and precision. With da Vinci, surgeons can work safely around critical structures such as nerves, blood vessels and lymph nodes, and can access areas that are challenging to get to through traditional open surgery.
This is particularly advantageous for cancer patients. Smaller incisions and greater precision lead to reduced pain, less bleeding, and lower chances for infections. Overall, this usually leads to a faster recovery allowing patients faster access to necessary additional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation.
Patients experience:
- Less post-operative pain and less need for narcotic pain medications
- Lower risk of infection
- Lower rates of hernias
- Smaller scars
- Shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery at home
- A faster return to normal activities, such as work and exercise
Edward-Elmhurst Health prioritizes safety and long-term outcomes for cancer patients. Your surgeon will inform you if robotic surgery is right for you.
To learn more about robotic and minimally invasive surgery options, visit us online or call 630-527-7730.