At AdventHealth, we utilize the latest medical technology to perform minimally invasive robot-assisted colorectal cancer surgery that’s safer and can lead to quicker recovery times for patients. If you or someone you love has a colorectal cancer diagnosis, we’re here with expert guidance from our colorectal surgeon, Matthew Wilson, MD, FACS, FACSRS, to help you learn more about robot-assisted surgery and how we can provide effective treatment and whole-person healing.
What is Robot-Assisted Surgery?
Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical treatment using the da Vinci XI Robotic Surgical System™. Dr. Wilson explains, “Robotic surgery has revolutionized the colorectal cancer surgery process. Unlike traditional surgery that entails large incisions, robot-assisted surgery is minimally invasive. We’ll make a few small incisions through which the robotic arms and camera are placed.”
What is the da Vinci XI Robotic Surgical System™?
The da Vinci XI™ robot has three major components: the surgeon console, the vision tower and the patient side cart. A camera allows the surgeon to view the area in which they are operating. The nimble robotic arms and instruments are what the surgeon uses to perform the procedure.
Dr. Wilson articulates, “The high-definition 3D camera provides us with an amplified view of the surgical site. That allows us to see the tumor and surrounding tissues more clearly. The robotic arms mimic your surgeon’s movements, which leads to greater precision and flexibility during the surgery.”
How is Robot-Assisted Surgery Performed?
The surgeon makes several small incisions about the size of a dime. A tiny robotic laparoscope and small robotic arms are inserted. The surgeon manipulates the camera and robotic arms to remove or repair the part of the anatomy being treated.
Dr. Wilson reminds us that at AdventHealth, “Your health, safety and peace of mind come first. Robotic technology guides your surgeon’s movements and helps to optimize precision and accuracy.”
Benefits of Robot-Assisted Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Robot-assisted surgery offers many benefits for colorectal cancer treatment. Compared to traditional open surgery, some of those benefits include:
- Incisions are smaller with robotic surgery, providing a quicker return to normal daily activities
- Increased magnification of the surgery site to 10-times the size, combined with easily maneuverable robotic arms and instruments, which provides superior control and improved functional outcomes
- Less risk of blood loss, practically eliminating the need for blood transfusions
- Less time under anesthesia
- Minimal pain
- Shorter hospital stay
- Quicker return to work
“Robot-assisted surgery has proven success in treating colorectal surgery,” says Dr. Wilson. Various studies have shown that it’s as effective as traditional surgery in removing cancer and has similar or even better outcomes for patient recovery and long-term survival rates.
Embracing the Future of Health Care
Robot-assisted surgery offers a significant advancement in colorectal cancer treatment with many benefits for our patients well-being and peace of mind. At AdventHealth, we fully embrace new technologies, like the da Vinci XI Robotic Surgical System™, that can aid in healing our patients in body, mind and spirit.
Request an appointment and learn how we can support your whole health along your journey. You deserve to feel whole.
