Laparoscopic Surgery vs. Robotic-Assisted Surgery
A laparoscopy is a medical procedure where your abdomen is examined with a special camera. Traditional surgery on that area requires a long, invasive cut, which is why laparoscopic surgery was invented. Laparoscopic surgery (or “keyhole surgery”) is a minimally invasive surgery on your abdomen area used with the help of the aforementioned special cameras or scope. Because the surgery uses those tiny cameras, there is no longer a need to make big incisions and have an open surgery.
In recent years, more and more patients are opting for robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery. However, in general, these two options – laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery – are recommended by doctors and patients alike for their advantages over traditional open surgery. What are the differences between the two, and what should you consider when choosing one option over the other?
The Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery is often used to treat prostate cancer, infertility issues, and other urological problems. In the past, open surgery was the only treatment option, and it was often scary and messy for both the surgeons and the patients. Nowadays, laparoscopic surgery is the norm due to its several advantages. The chief benefit of undergoing laparoscopic surgery is the decreased hospital stay afterward. Most patients recover and are released from the hospital one day after their procedure. Laparoscopic surgery is faster than normal surgery because it’s minimally invasive, and it results in less pain and need for antibiotics. The special cameras and scopes used during laparoscopic surgery allow for the doctor to make precise actions. Despite its quick, minimally invasive process, laparoscopic surgery is a delicate and technically difficult surgery that requires a skilled surgeon.
What Are the Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery?
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery has become increasingly more popular. It’s basically a regular laparoscopic surgery but done with a special robotic machine instead of a real surgeon. The most popular robotic system is the da Vinci System that is currently used all around the world for surgery. During the surgery, the surgeon operates behind the 3-D robotic system and directs its surgical tools. The operating screen that the surgeon observes can magnify more than 10 times onto the surgery area. This allows for more precise movements during the surgery than if the doctor was doing it by himself or herself.
The actual benefits of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery are the same as regular laparoscopic surgery. You have the added benefit of having more precise and minimally invasive cuts with robotic-assisted surgery, and the magnified operating screen can allow your surgeon to quickly complete the surgery. Studies have shown that you experience even less pain and a quicker recovery after a robotic surgery than after a regular laparoscopic surgery. Unfortunately, robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery isn’t available at all hospitals, and studies have yet to indicate if it’s actually more cost-effective than regular laparoscopic surgery.
Consider Laparoscopic or Robotic Surgery at Somerset Urological
If you are currently suffering from a urological problem that requires examination and possible surgery, consider going to Somerset Urological Associates. We are proud to offer both laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery at our facilities. With these procedures, you are guaranteed to experience less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery than if you were to undergo regular open surgery. In addition to laparoscopic surgery, we also utilize the latest technology in diagnosing and treating both male and female urological disorders. If you’re experiencing pain or an undiagnosed problem, contact Somerset Urological today and schedule an appointment so we can help you discover the best treatment plan for your condition.