How exactly does robotic surgery differ from traditional surgery?

Robotic surgery is becoming the ever-popular choice these days when it comes to deciding between either that or traditional surgery. Here, Mr Gautam Mehra, a highly revered consultant gynaecologist, gynaecological oncologist, and gynaecological surgeon, explains how robotic surgery differs from traditional surgery, and outlines the associated potential risks.

How does robotic surgery differ from traditional surgery?

Robotic surgery involves making small incisions, whereas traditional surgery involves making one large incision.

What are the most common procedures carried out by robotic surgery in gynaecology?

The most common type of robotic surgery is a hysterectomy, which can be performed to treat cancer and benign conditions. Also, fibroids, endometriosis, fertility preserving surgery, and ovarian cancer can all be treated by robotic surgery.

What risks and complications may occur?

Damage to the ureter can occasionally occur. Bleeding during surgery, damage to the urinary tract and bowel, and infection are all also very small risks. There is also a minimal risk of blood clots in the legs and lungs.

Rarely, women can develop hernias, but again, this is quite rare. When women are undergoing surgery for cancer, they can develop a condition whereby the lymph nodes are removed.

What is recovery like for gynaecological patients after having robotic surgery?

Pain after robotic surgery is much less when compared to traditional surgery. About 90 per cent of patients will go home the following day. Most patients are up and about the same day, ready to get back to their daily routine. We recommend that women avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle for up to four weeks while the tissues are still healing.

The average person who undergoes a major robotic-assisted operation will generally return to work after four weeks, but of course, this depends on the individual.

Make sure you book an appointment with Mr Gautam Mehra today via his Top Doctors profile if you would like to find out more about robotic surgery.