Minimally invasive surgery has come a long way since the first laparoscopic procedure was performed on a human in the early 1900s.
Robotic surgery, which combines the advantages of minimally invasive surgery with the latest digital technology in vision, dexterity and surgeon control, is the ultimate application of modern medical technology.
Robotic tools enhance imaging and provide surgeons with a three-dimensional perspective when performing complex operations. This, in turn, improves precision for surgeons and the overall quality of procedures for patients.
That’s an important fact to consider for anyone facing a choice regarding surgery. Many studies have demonstrated the ability of robotic surgery to minimize patient trauma by avoiding open procedures and facilitating a faster, easier recovery process.
Colon and Rectal Surgery at Roper Hospital
Roper Hospital is a national leader in robotic colon and rectal surgery, a specialty that provides care for cancer and benign conditions of the colon, rectum and anus.
Colorectal surgery is a dedicated specialty which utilizes board certified Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Since this type of surgery is performed within the narrow confines of the pelvis, robotic technology allows us to minimize trauma to the patient, decrease the length of time a patient has to stay in the hospital and improve the overall recovery process.
In fact, our facility is designated as one of just nine robotic colorectal epicenters nationally, based on volume, outcomes and national recognition.
Because of this designation, and the quality that it signifies, surgeons from across the country – including the Cleveland Clinic and the Mayo Clinic – come to Charleston to observe our robotics team perform complex operations efficiently. Swiftness is key in maximizing the benefits of minimally invasive technology.
As an added resource, we conduct educational webinars to surgeons all around the world, which includes advanced courses and techniques in colorectal surgery.
Surging Ahead with Robotics
We are performing complex surgeries, such as those on rectal cancer, very quickly and with nearly no incisions.
Surgeries using robotics performed by our division of Colon and Rectal Surgery include intestinal resections for polyps or cancer, complex pelvic and presacral tumors, inflammatory bowel disease surgery (such as Crohn’s disease), ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis.
There is also significant overlap between the epicenter work and the newly established RSF Pelvic Health Center. More than 40 percent of patients with issues such as from incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse will require intricate surgeries that combine multiple specialties. These procedures can now be performed minimally invasively as well with the robotic technology.
The frontiers of robotic surgery are always expanding. With more than 300 cases performed using this technology, the Roper St. Francis Robotic Colorectal epicenter is helping to lead the way in the U.S. with this technology. Our team is a highly experienced group who looks to bring the safest and highest quality of robotic surgery to our patients’.
By Jorge Lagares-Garcia, MD, a colorectal surgeon with Charleston Colorectal Surgery
One response to “Advances in Robotic Surgery at Roper Hospital”
Robotic technology allows clinicians increased precision and may even reduce the amount of time a patient spends in surgery procedure. All of these factors together can lead to better procedural outcomes.