da Vinci® Robotic Bariatric Surgery
In keeping with our commitment to providing the most advanced surgical techniques to our patients, we offer minimally invasive robotic bariatric surgery performed with the state-of-the-art da Vinci® surgical system. The surgical method employed with the da Vinci is similar to laparoscopic surgery, in that small cameras and slender surgical instruments are inserted through three or four tiny incisions in a small region of the abdomen. The camera and tools are hooked up to a robotic surgical arm unit that is precisely guided by the surgeon using the innovative da Vinci interface and controls. Compared with traditional laparoscopy, robot-assisted surgery with da Vinci is performed on a smaller scale and with increased maneuverability, dexterity, and precision—all of which can enhance outcomes and post-surgical healing for a faster, more comfortable recovery. Best of all, robotic surgery has fewer risks and a lower rate of complications.
If you are considering weight loss surgery at Griffin Bariatrics and would like to learn more about the da Vinci robotic surgery system, we welcome you to explore the informative sections we’ve provided below. You may also contact our practice to schedule a consultation with a weight loss surgeon who can answer all of your questions and determine if bariatric surgery is right for you.
What Are the Benefits of Robotic Surgery?
Weight loss surgery performed with the da Vinci robotic surgery system offers several important advantages, to both the surgeon and patient, when compared with conventional surgical techniques and laparoscopic surgery:
- Incisions are incredibly small—approximately the width of a pencil.
- The surgical area is greatly reduced due to the small instrumentation and movements of da Vinci.
- Only three or four incisions are required to insert da Vinci’s surgical instruments and cameras.
- Dual cameras provide the surgeon with stereoscopic vision for enhanced visibility.
- The da Vinci cameras produce high-definition, 3D images that can be magnified for optimal visibility during surgery.
- The images captured with the cameras are displayed on a high-resolution screen positioned above the controls.
- Da Vinci dramatically reduces the surgeon’s movements (½ inch for every one inch movement) to provide unparalleled surgical precision.
- The joystick-like controls interpret the finger, wrist, and hand movements of the surgeon for exact manipulation of the surgical tools.
- The EndoWrist® robotic components of da Vinci enable optimal range of motion when operating the surgical tools.
- Procedures performed with da Vinci are minimally invasive and considered “closed” surgery (because no open incisions are required), which reduces certain risks and complications that can accompany more invasive procedures.
Simply put, robotic weight loss surgery can translate into some significant benefits for patients:
- Faster recovery (return to your normal activities in less time!)
- Minimal scarring
- Less postoperative discomfort
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stay
- Fewer risks and complications
You can learn more about robotic weight loss surgery by registering for one of our free seminars or by contacting us to schedule a consultation.
How Does Robotic Surgery Work?
While surgery performed with da Vinci is called a “robotic” procedure, the surgery is not actually performed independently by the robot (da Vinci cannot act on its own); rather, your weight loss surgeon is assisted by and operates the da Vinci system. During the procedure, you will be asleep under general anesthesia and closely monitored by a board-certified anesthesiologist for safety. To begin, small incisions are made in the treatment area, through which the slender surgical instruments and cameras (attached to rods) are inserted. Using the high-resolution, 3D images that appear on the console as a guide, your surgeon can then manipulate da Vinci’s robotic arms, cameras, and surgical tools using the control panel to complete the procedure. As the control joysticks are moved, electronic signals are sent to the instruments and the instruments move in precise timing with the surgeon’s hands. Once the procedure is complete, the rods are removed and the incisions are carefully closed.
Can da Vinci® Robotic Surgery Be Used for All Bariatric Procedures?
At Griffin Bariatrics, the versatile da Vinci robotic system can be used to perform gastric banding surgery, gastric bypass surgery, and gastric sleeve surgery. Following a consultation and health evaluation, your weight loss surgeon can let you know if robotic bariatric surgery is the most suitable option for your needs. If you are interested in revision bariatric surgery (surgery to correct or improve the outcome of a previous weight loss surgery performed by another surgeon), robotic surgery may be possible; however, these complex determinations are made on a case-by-case basis.
Learn More About Robotic Bariatric Surgery
Are you curious about weight loss surgery? Let our experienced team assist you on your journey to better health. We offer the full spectrum of bariatric surgery options along with support groups and a thriving wellness community. Learn more about our services through several free seminars or contact our office to schedule a personal consultation.
