You may picture science fiction androids when you hear the phrase “robotic surgery.” But robotic surgery is actually quite human.
A robotic surgery system is an advanced technology that allows your surgeon to perform minimally invasive procedures that provide you with many benefits compared with traditional open surgery.
Here at Virtuosa GYN in San Antonio, Texas, Susan Crockett, MD, uses the world-renowned da Vinci robot-assisted surgical system. In fact, Dr. Crockett is a master-level surgeon with the da Vinci system.
If you’re scheduled for robotic surgery, you probably have questions about what you can expect. Here, we offer answers to some common patient questions. If you have other questions after reading this blog, we invite you to reach out to Dr. Crockett and our staff.
What is robotic surgery?
The da Vinci robot-assisted surgical system features tools that Dr. Crockett uses to perform your procedure with enhanced accuracy and precision.
The system includes a magnified three-dimensional high-definition vision capability that boosts human vision. In fact, during your operation, the da Vinci system makes it possible for Dr. Crockett to see 10 times better than she can without robotic assistance.
The da Vinci system also features tiny instruments that bend and rotate with far greater flexibility than the human wrist, which allows Dr. Crockett to perform surgery with exceptional precision through the smallest possible incisions.
To learn more about the many benefits of da Vinci robotic surgery, read our recent blog.
How do I prepare for robotic surgery?
Surgical preparation regimens vary based on the type of procedure you are receiving. Our Virtuosa GYN team gives you clear, personalized surgery-prep instructions before your procedure so you know exactly what to do to prepare.
Generally, because robotic surgery requires smaller incisions than open surgery, our patients experience less pain and bleeding. Your surgical prep instructions take this into account. But because you still require anesthesia, your instructions explain how to prepare for receiving anesthesia.
Your preoperative instructions include guidance on when to stop eating and drinking before surgery, when to arrive for your procedure, what to wear, and how to time any medications you may take.
How long is recuperation after surgery?
Your projected recuperation time depends on several factors, including the type of procedure you receive. Dr. Crockett uses robotic assistance for a wide variety of procedures, including endometriosis surgery, hysterectomy, uterine fibroid surgery, and pelvic organ prolapse procedures.
But the length of recuperation time is typically far shorter for minimally invasive robotic surgery than for traditional open surgery because the incisions are smaller, which usually leads to less postoperative pain.
We let you know how long your procedure will take, when you can expect to go home, and what care you need after your surgery. We also send you home with clear instructions about whom to contact if you have questions or concerns during your recuperation.
What if I have other questions?
Dr. Crockett and our team of care providers want to make sure all of your questions are answered before your operation. We invite you to contact us today at our San Antonio, Texas, office with any questions or concerns you may have.
