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da Vinci Robot-Assisted Surgery

For hundreds of years, surgical procedures have been used to treat patients suffering from a variety of ailments. Advancements in the surgical field have changed surgical procedures, making minimally invasive surgery standard practice.

Now the art of surgery has taken a cue from pioneer inventor and artist, Leonardo da Vinci. Comprised of three components–a surgeon’s console, patient cart and vision center–the da Vinci Surgical System combines the latest in robotics and computer technology. Leonardo da Vinci used 3-D, anatomically correct details to bring stunning masterpieces to life. The da Vinci Surgical System uses a vivid 3-D, high definition camera to restore the feel of open surgery.

“Da Vinci robot assisted surgery is the latest and greatest in minimally invasive surgery,” says McFarland Clinic Obstetrician and Gynecologist Jay Swanson, DO, who uses the technology to perform hysterectomies. “The technology is a great benefit to us, which turns into benefits for the patients.”

Making use of this technology allows for increased dexterity and precision. During a procedure, the surgeon’s fingers are placed in the master controls on the surgeon’s console; a camera inside the body shows a highly magnified, 3-D image of the patient’s interior on the viewfinder. As the surgeon moves his hands, the controls seamlessly translate natural, precise, real-time movements.

Da Vinci Surgical System robot.“Endo Wrist® instruments replicate the full range of motion of a human wrist, removing the rigidity of minimally invasive surgeries,” says Dr. Swanson.

Smaller instruments and incisions result in reduced blood loss and an improved cosmetic outcome. Likewise, fewer complications arise when a patient has a da Vinci hysterectomy, which results in a shorter hospital stay. Pain is significantly reduced and recovery is much quicker.

“Patients are recovering faster with less pain after surgery,” says Dr. Swanson. “It now takes about two weeks to get back to their usual routine rather than four to six.”

Different types of hysterectomies can be performed based on specific problems experienced by the patient. Benign conditions, like heavy bleeding or endometriosis, or gynecological cancer can be treated with da Vinci surgery. Discussing surgery options with your doctor is the best way to determine what treatment is right for you.

To learn more about hysterectomy and da Vinci surgeries, check out the following online health articles:

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