Robotic Prostate Cancer Surgery
Robotic surgery involves use of the da Vinci robotic surgical unit in performing complex surgical procedures such as prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland for cancer). Originally developed for space and military uses, this advanced technology allows the operating surgeon to sit behind a console and control the robot that is next to the patient to perform surgery. The da Vinci robotic surgical system is available at Max Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India.
This technology allows the surgeon to operate with very small and precise instruments under a 3 dimensional (3-D) vision, which is magnified up to 10 times. This is achieved by inserting the camera and the instruments into the patient’s body through small cuts (incisions) ranging from 5 – 12 mm in size.
How is Robotic prostatectomy performed
Robotic Prostatectomy, also known as Robotic surgery for prostate cancer or da Vinci® Prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that is now the preferred approach for removal of the prostate in those diagnosed with organ-confined prostate cancer. The da Vinci Prostatectomy may be the most effective, least invasive prostate surgery performed today. Though any diagnosis of cancer can be traumatic, the good news is that if your doctor recommends prostate surgery, the cancer was probably caught early. And, with da Vinci Prostatectomy, the likelihood of a complete recovery from prostate cancer without long-term side effects is, for most patients, better than it has ever been.
The operation is performed using the daVinci Surgical system and 3-D endoscopic and wristed instruments inserted through 5-6 small incisions across the mid-abdomen (See Figure below)
During the dVP, a telescopic lens is inserted into one of the small incisions. This provides a magnified 3 dimensional view of the delicate nerves and muscle surrounding the prostate, thus allowing optimal preservation of these vital structures.