Gynecologic Robotic Surgery
- What is Gynecologic Robotic Surgery?
- How Does the Robotic Surgical System Work?
- Is a Robot Operating On Me?
- Robotic Surgery: What to Expect
- Benefits of Robotic-assisted Surgery?
- Can any Doctor Perform Robotic Surgery?
- Is Robotic Surgery Safe?
- How Does the Robotic Surgeon See What He or She is Doing?
- How Many Days Will I Miss from Work?
- Pain Management Options after Robotic Surgery
- NYGS Approach
What is Gynecologic Robotic Surgery?
Gynecologic robotic surgery employs robotic-assisted technology to perform various gynecological procedures with minimal invasiveness. This surgical technique involves a highly trained surgeon operating a specialized surgical robot from a console. The robot’s arms are equipped with small instruments that are used to conduct the surgery through small incisions in the patient’s abdomen.
This innovative approach is utilized for a range of gynecologic procedures, including hysterectomy, myomectomy, removal of ovarian cysts, and excision of endometriosis, among others. By harnessing robotic technology, this technique enables greater surgical precision and accuracy, reduces blood loss, and leads to decreased postoperative pain and quicker recovery times for patients.
At New York Gynecology Surgery (NYGS), we offer advanced robotic procedures in gynecology, and our surgeons possess extensive specialization and experience in performing these procedures. With a track record of thousands of successful cases, our patients can rest assured knowing that they will receive the best possible outcomes.
The da Vinci™ surgical system comprises a specialized array of technologies employed in robotic surgery. This advanced system encompasses instrumental “arms” along with a camera, a magnified screen, and a console.
How Does the Robotic Surgical System Work?
The functioning of the Robotic surgical system involves creating small openings in the body and introducing miniaturized instruments and a high-definition three-dimensional camera. From a nearby console, the surgeon operates the instruments, akin to maneuvering in a video game. The surgeon’s movements are translated into precise actions within the body through the master controls. This grants the surgeon full command over the system during the entire procedure. In certain cases, it may be possible to perform the surgery without any skin incisions at all.
Is a Robot Operating On Me?
While patients might harbor concerns regarding robotic surgery, it’s important to note that the Robotic Surgical System is under the direct control of the surgeon. The surgeon guides the machine to execute precise movements, and the robot itself does not autonomously make decisions or conduct incisions. Instead, it responds to the surgeon’s commands, thereby enhancing precision. Ultimately, the surgeon retains complete control over the procedure at all times.
Robotic Surgery: What to Expect
During a Robotic-assisted surgery, your surgeon operates from a nearby console instead of directly standing over you as in traditional surgery. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Your surgeon creates small incisions in your body, typically measuring one to two centimeters.
- Miniature robotic instruments and a high-quality camera are then inserted into your body by the surgeon.
- Your surgeon takes a seat at the nearby console, where a magnified view of the surgical site with exceptional resolution is displayed.
- From the console, your surgeon manipulates the controls, which accurately translate into precise movements within your body in real-time.
- The robotic instruments possess enhanced dexterity and a broader range of motion compared to a human, enabling your surgeon to successfully perform intricate surgeries in challenging-to-access areas.
What are the Benefits of Robotic-assisted Surgery?
Robotic-assisted surgery presents numerous advantages, which include:
- Reduced pain and scarring: The smaller incisions employed in robotic-assisted surgery result in decreased pain and scarring compared to traditional open surgery.
- Shorter hospital stays: Patients undergoing robotic-assisted surgery typically have shorter hospital stays in comparison to those undergoing traditional open surgery.
- Quicker recovery times: The use of smaller incisions and limited tissue damage in robotic-assisted surgery can contribute to faster patient recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
- Enhanced precision and accuracy: The robotic instruments utilized in these procedures offer superior precision and accuracy, surpassing the capabilities of a surgeon’s hands. This enables the performance of delicate and intricate procedures with greater efficacy.
- Reduced risk of complications: Robotic-assisted surgery, being less invasive than traditional open surgery, carries a lower risk of complications such as infections and bleeding.
- Improved visualization: The utilization of a high-definition 3D camera in robotic-assisted surgery provides enhanced visualization of the surgical site, leading to more accurate and precise procedures.
Overall, robotic-assisted surgery provides a multitude of benefits when compared to traditional open surgery, making it an appealing option for many patients.
Can any Doctor Perform Robotic Surgery?
Proficiency in performing robotic surgery requires specific training and expertise, and not every doctor possesses the necessary skills. However, with the appropriate training, any doctor can master the Robotic Surgical System. At NYGS, we prioritize our patients’ well-being and strive to provide a positive experience.
Our surgeons have made significant investments in training, ensuring that our robotic surgeons, as well as the entire surgical team, are well-prepared.
Is Robotic Surgery Safe?
Robotic surgery is deemed safe when carried out by a proficient and well-trained surgeon. Nonetheless, akin to any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks involved, including the possibility of bleeding, infection, or complications related to anesthesia. Nevertheless, research indicates that robotic surgery may exhibit lower rates of complications and expedited recovery times compared to traditional surgery, particularly for specific procedures.
It is crucial to recognize that the safety of robotic surgery is contingent upon various factors, such as the patient’s overall health and the complexity of the operation. Therefore, it is essential for patients to consult their surgeon and engage in a comprehensive discussion regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with robotic surgery. This collaborative conversation will assist in determining whether robotic surgery is the most suitable option for their specific circumstances.
How Does the Robotic Surgeon See What He or She is Doing?
The Robotic System integrates an internal camera that captures real-time images from inside your body and transmits them to your surgeon at the console. The images viewed by your surgeon through the Robotic System offer greater magnification and enhanced resolution compared to what they would perceive while physically positioned over you.
How Many Days Will I Miss from Work?
The duration of the recovery period following surgery can differ for each patient, making it crucial to engage in a detailed discussion with your doctor regarding your specific case. Typically, patients may expect to stay in the hospital for one to two nights before being released to return home. In general, patients can anticipate a complete recovery within six weeks following the surgery.
Pain Management Options after Robotic Surgery
At NYGS, our utmost priority is to prioritize the effective management of pain following surgical procedures, including robotic surgery. Our dedicated team conducts comprehensive research on pain management techniques, guaranteeing that your pain is sufficiently addressed throughout every stage of the surgical process—from preoperative to intraoperative and postoperative periods. We acknowledge that pain may persist even after your hospital discharge, and therefore, we will work closely with you to develop a personalized pain treatment plan to effectively manage your pain at home.
NYGS Approach
At New York Gynecology Surgery (NYGS), we understand that undergoing robotic surgery can be an intimidating and anxiety-inducing experience. To ensure your comfort and peace of mind, we assemble teams that are specifically designed to cater to your unique requirements.
Our experienced robotic surgeons will offer unwavering support during this challenging period and address any apprehensions or questions you may have. We are fully committed to meeting your individual needs and exceeding your expectations throughout your surgical journey.
Pankaj Singhal, MD, MS, MHCM
- Industry expertise with over 12 years of experience in both academic & private health care settings, physician practice management and executive leadership.
- Trained over 45 gynecologic surgeons along with training fellows in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and gynecology oncology, and has developed cutting edge, new surgical techniques for endometriosis and laparoscopic surgeries.
- One of the very few surgeons who have completed over 5,718 robot-assisted gynecologic surgeries in the entire United States.
- Known for taking on the most challenging surgery cases that other doctors/centers turn away.
Hear From Our Clients
Joetta Simonette
On May 3, 2018 at Good Samarital Hospital, due to cancer, you performed ovarian surgery on me.
It is now 5 years since that date – 5 years of wellness that has been accomplished through the grace of God guiding your hands and the support of your team and my loving family.
You are an excellent, compassionate and caring doctor who was confident of a good outcome, and so it is!
Thank you, thank you for these past wonderful years. May God continue to bless you. You are in my prayers!
RG Petkos
Power couple Dr. Singhal & Dr. Mclean are amazing!! My experience with them has been absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend either of them for so many reasons mainly for helping me get back some quality of life with my successful full hysterectomy being better than I expected.
The process from the beginning with them was a pleasure and I had quite a challenge beforehand so I’m very grateful that quality, professional, caring doctors still exist!!
I especially appreciate their proactive approach and feel the combination of the care and expertise they provide make for successful outcomes!!
Kimberly Quinde
Dr. Singhal was the doctor who took care of my mother Ivonne Guevara. My mother had gone to 2 other doctors who refused to take care of her fibroid. She was in pain for years and her fibroid had grown really big without her knowing. When my mom went to Dr Singhal she was met with calmness and reassurance that everything will be ok and he would help her get better. Dr. Singhal was so kind and caring all throughout the process.
He took all her worries away and my mom highly recommends him. She hopes every doctor can be as great as Dr. Singhal.
Everyone in his office was so nice to my mom and it was a great experience given the circumstances.
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