Improving Patient Outcomes with Robotic Surgical Assistance
Surgical medicine has transformed over the past several years as a result of innovative developments. In our Chattanooga urology practice, it has been the advent of robotic surgery that has significantly impacted our approach to urologic care. Specifically, minimally invasive robotic surgery has improved outcomes in the treatment of urological cancers.
What is Robotic Surgery?
Our physicians use the da Vinci robotic surgery system to achieve superior clinical results for patients with prostate cancer. This surgical console provides the surgeon with three-dimensional, multi-level magnification of the surgical field, a much higher resolution image than is possible with traditional scope-assisted procedures.
As it sounds, robotic surgery involves the use of a sensitive electronic arm. The surgeon trained to operate the da Vinci system performs procedures from an operative site at which hand, wrist, and finger movements are transferred from the surgical console to the operative field in perfect scale.
Significant advantages of robotic surgery for prostate cancer include:
- The one-centimeter diameter robotic arm of the da Vinci system is maneuvered with the help of sensitive electronics. This facilitates the most precise movements and efficiency for tissue removal without extensive disruption to surrounding structures. The conservation of these structures can lead to better outcomes regarding urinary continence after prostatectomy.
- Because magnification improves the field of vision, the risk of missing cancerous tissue is very small. The success of accurate removal translates into a lower risk of relapse.
- Conservative methodology also improves clinical results by reducing the chance of scar tissue accumulation, thus supporting adequate sexual function following the recovery from prostate surgery.
- Smaller incisions during robotic surgery improve outcomes by reducing the risk of tearing and infection. Recovery is typically faster and more comfortable than traditional surgical techniques.
UT Urology has performed over 1,000 robotic surgical procedures in recent years. Our success with the da Vinci system continues to support optimal outcomes for patients with prostate cancer and other conditions which require surgical repair or removal of affected organs.
We are committed to ongoing progress through which our patients receive the best possible care. To learn more about treatment options for urological conditions such as prostate cancer, schedule a consultation with us.