Surgery Spotlight: Robotic Surgical Technologies

If you or a loved one is facing surgery, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive or robotic surgery options. Not only are these state-of-the-art technologies fascinating and evolving, but there are many potential advantages to consider.

Is minimally invasive surgery an option?

During minimally invasive surgery, a surgeon will only make one small incision. The surgeon will then perform the procedure with the help of special tools connected to a video monitor. This can be an excellent and standard option for some procedures but is not usually an option for more complicated surgeries.

The benefits of minimally invasive surgery may include the following:

• Shorter recovery times
• Fewer complications
• Lower hospitalization costs
• Less trauma

What about robotic surgery?

Guided by a surgeon, a robotic surgical system includes a console and a high-definition 3-D view that guides the surgical equipment. The movements by these tools are extremely small yet precise, which allows for sensitive and delicate procedures to be performed. These surgeries are conducted in real-time and showcase how the high-definition view can present a clearer picture of the surgical site versus traditional techniques. Frederick Health Hospital currently uses a state-of-the-art surgical system for minimally invasive robotic surgery.

The benefits of robotic surgery may include the following:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Less pain
• Less risk of infection
• Less blood loss
• Fewer transfusions
• Less scarring
• Faster recovery times
• Quicker return to normal daily activities
• Overall, better outcomes

Every surgery and every patient is unique. While many patients experience the benefits listed above, none of these benefits are guaranteed. All surgeries carry a risk of major complications. Talk to your doctor today about which surgery options are best for you.

Learn more about robotic surgery at Frederick Health.