Gynecological Surgery and the Robot

Abstract

As the only robotic device with FDA approval for gynecological surgery, the da Vinci? Surgical System dominates robot-assisted surgery in the field. Benefits to the Surgeon include decreased risk of neck and back injury secondary to improved ergonomics. However, patients benefit greatly due to decreased length of stay, decreased blood loss and analgesic requirements. Unfortunately the initial economic impact of purchasing and maintaining a robot is great but must be balanced with the potential savings from reduced length of stay and earlier return to normal activity. This article looks at the indications for robot-assisted surgery in gynecology. Assessing the efficacy of this modality compared to both straight stick (Laparoscopy) and open procedures. We discuss the impact and implications for surgical training imposed by robotic surgery. Furthermore, we assess the safety of robotic surgery from both the surgeons prospective and as a surgical modality.