What Is Da Vinci Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is the most advanced form of minimally invasive (closed) surgery. In addition to all the benefits of laparoscopy, it offers high-definition, three-dimensional imaging and utilizes robotic arms that mimic the surgeon’s hand and wrist movements with seven degrees of freedom.
This method has become increasingly common in gynecological procedures in recent years. For example, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) can be safely and effectively performed using the da Vinci robotic system.
Robotic surgery was first used in neurosurgery in 1985 and became a standard practice in gynecology after 2005. Developed jointly by Stanford University and NASA, the da Vinci system is now considered the most advanced robotic surgical platform in the world.
The goal is to complete the procedure with the smallest possible incisions, minimizing many of the risks associated with traditional surgery. Unlike open surgery, robotic procedures are performed through small abdominal openings. The da Vinci system provides a magnified, high-resolution, three-dimensional view, which greatly enhances surgical precision.
Advantages of Da Vinci Robotic Surgery
Some of the key advantages of robotic surgery include:
- Less blood loss (reduced bleeding during the procedure)
- Less pain (minimal discomfort in the postoperative period)
- Faster recovery (patients return to daily life more quickly)
- Shorter hospital stays
- Smaller scars (superior cosmetic outcomes)
For example, in our hospital, a patient with an enlarged uterus equivalent to a 12-week pregnancy and long-standing heavy bleeding underwent a comfortable, closed robotic hysterectomy using the da Vinci system.
How Is Da Vinci Robotic Surgery Performed?
Several small incisions (about 1 cm) are made in the abdomen. One incision is used to inflate the abdomen with gas and place the camera. The other incisions allow insertion of robotic arms and surgical instruments. The surgeon operates the robotic system from a specialized console.
What sets robotic surgery apart is its ability to replicate the surgeon’s hand and wrist movements while eliminating tremors and reducing fatigue. This enables precise maneuvers even in narrow spaces, such as behind the uterus.
When Is Robotic Surgery Used?
Robotic surgery is widely used, especially for hysterectomies, and is preferred in many other gynecological procedures. These include:
- Myomectomy (removal of fibroids)
- Endometriosis surgery
- Ovarian cyst removal
- Cervical cancer surgery
- Early-stage ovarian cancer surgery
It is especially beneficial for patients who:
- Have had previous abdominal surgeries and may have adhesions
- Are significantly overweight (making access to the pelvic area more difficult)
- Have a very large uterus
- Require complex cancer surgeries
Thanks to the system’s three-dimensional imaging and wrist-like robotic arms, the surgeon can operate with greater ease and precision, while reducing the risk of tissue damage.
The Comfort of Da Vinci Robotic Surgery
Da Vinci robotic surgery provides significant benefits for both patients and surgeons. Postoperative pain is often minimal, and most patients can be discharged within 1–2 days. Recovery time is much shorter than with open surgery, allowing for a quicker return to daily routines and work. The small incisions also mean minimal scarring, which is a major cosmetic advantage.
Studies have shown that robotic surgery leads to less blood loss, fewer complications, faster recovery, and better cosmetic outcomes. For women seeking a safe and comfortable healing experience, robotic surgery is one of the most modern and effective options available today.
