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Some women with reproductive tract cancers and other gynecological disorders need a hysterectomy, surgery to remove the uterus. In the United States, the majority of hysterectomies are done through a large incision in the abdomen. But a hysterectomy can also be performed using a minimally invasive (laparoscopic) approach.
Minimally invasive surgery uses a laparoscope, an instrument with a camera that transmits images to a video monitor, and other small instruments are inserted through the incisions. The camera allows the physician to see the structures within the abdomen and pelvis. In general, minimally invasive surgery is less traumatic than open surgery, involving smaller incisions, little scarring, less pain, minimal blood loss, shorter hospitalization, faster recovery and fewer side effects.
The da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System takes minimally invasive surgery one step further. The system gives the surgeon improved magnification, a three-dimension view of the surgical site and precise robotic movements, enhancing the precision of the surgeon.
The da Vinci® system is composed of a surgeon console, a computerized control system, two instrument “arms” and a camera. The surgeon makes small incisions or “ports” in the abdomen. The surgical instruments, attached to the robotic arms, and a camera are placed through the ports. The surgeon uses the robot’s arms to control the movement and placement of the surgical instruments.
Robotic surgery may potentially reduce the rate of open abdominal hysterectomies and make minimally invasive surgery and its benefits available to patients.
Not every woman who needs a hysterectomy is a candidate for the robot-assisted surgery. In addition to a hysterectomy, robotic surgery is also useful to:
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