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About robotic surgery
Robotic surgery is a type of surgery that uses a robot to help the surgeon perform the procedure. The robot allows for precise movements through small cuts.
During robotic surgery, the surgeon controls the robot. The robot has tools and a camera that are inserted into your body through small cuts. The surgeon uses these tools to perform the surgery while viewing a 3D image of the area.
Benefits of robotic surgery
-
Smaller incisions
Robotic surgery uses smaller cuts than traditional surgery. These few small cuts are about the size of your fingertip. This means less pain, less bleeding, faster recovery and smaller scars. - More precise
The robot helps the surgeon make precise movements. This can lead to better results. - Less pain
Smaller cuts mean less damage to the surrounding tissues. So, you may feel less pain and heal faster. - Faster recovery
Most patients heal quicker than after traditional surgery. This means you can go back to your normal activities sooner. - Lower risk of infection
Smaller incisions also reduce the chance of infection.
Risks of robotic surgery
The risks of having surgery with a robot are no higher than the risks with traditional techniques. Depending on the operation, there may be specific risks associated with the robot. Your surgeon will explain these beforehand.
What to expect
Before the operation
You will have an appointment with the surgical doctors a few weeks before surgery. They will explain the procedure and discuss the benefits and risks.
They may suggest alternative options to having robotic surgery, if there are any. For example, there may be the option to have traditional surgery instead, such as:
- ‘open’ surgery – that is, with a wider cut
- or surgery that uses a telescope – called ‘endoscopic’ or ‘laparoscopic’ surgery.
Before your procedure, you will be asked to complete a pre-assessment health questionnaire. You may also may need to attend a pre-assessment clinic.
You will be given instructions beforehand, like stopping food for a few hours or stopping certain medications. You will have the chance to ask more questions on the day of your surgery. We also have more general information on getting ready for surgery.
During the operation
You will be given medicines to make you sleep during the surgery.
The surgeon will make small cuts to insert the robotic tools and a camera to view the surgical area. They will control the robot at all times, and guide it to perform the surgery.
The surgery may take several hours, depending on how complex it is.
The doctor doing your operation will be a fully qualified and experienced surgeon. However, while some surgeons are becoming an expert at using the robot, they will be supervised by another surgeon, called a ‘proctor’ for a set number of procedures. The proctor is there to ensure the surgeon is using the robot correctly and safely. They can also offer help and guidance when needed. If a proctor will be present during your operation, your surgeon will tell you beforehand.
Afterwards
- Recovery time
You may be able to go home the same day or within a couple of days, but this will depend on your surgery. You are likely to leave hospital quicker after robotic surgery than you would after traditional surgery. - Post-operative care
After surgery, you may feel mild pain, swelling or bruising around the incision sites. Your doctor will give you advice on managing pain and caring for the area. - Follow-up appointments
You will need a follow-up visit to make sure you are healing properly. You will be given a discharge letter before you leave hospital. This will include details of when you will be told about the follow-up appointment. - Returning to activities
You can usually return to normal activities within a few weeks, depending on the type of surgery. Your surgeon will guide you on when it is safe to resume work or exercise.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, robotic surgery is safe. Surgeons are well-trained in using the robot, and it helps improve precision. But, like any surgery, there are risks. These will be explained to you during discussions with your surgeon.
No, the surgeon has full control of the robot. The robot simply allows the surgeon to perform the operation with more precision.
Recovery times vary, but most people heal faster than after traditional surgery. You can usually return to daily activities within a few weeks.
Not all surgeries are done using robots. Your surgeon will decide if it is the best option for your condition.
Questions you can ask your doctor
- What medical and surgical options do I have for my condition?
- What is the best treatment for my condition?
- What are the differences between the different types of operation (non-robotic versus robotic)?
- How much training and experience do they have with using the surgical robot?
- How can I prepare for surgery?
- How will I feel after surgery?
More information
If you have any questions or concerns, contact your surgical team via their department administration. The details are given below.
Contact information
For more information, contact the department administration:
- Ear, nose and throat (ENT)
020 8934 6046 option 1 - Colorectal
020 8934 6041 option 2 - Gynaecology
020 8934 6407 option 2 - Urology
020 8934 6041 option 4