Robotic Surgery

Further Research

I thought since I have already jumped ahead a few months by beginning to explore the various methods of 'radiotherapy'; that I may as well 'jump' to the next step, following that: i.e. 'Removal of the Prostate'. My surgeon intends to use the 'laporascopic method', rather than the more common 'open surgery' method. Whilst exploring these various options, I came across a radical, new technique now being used in Australia (and elsewhere).


The da Vinci PROSTATECTOMY Method

Da Vinci Robotic prostatectomy is the newest and most advanced surgical option for patients. This method gives a surgeon greater visualization, enhanced dexterity, precision, control and superior ergonomics. This very precise surgery only requires 5 small incisions (1cm) in the abdomen.


About the da Vinci Robotic System

The da Vinci Surgical System is powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology. The System allows your surgeon's hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. The magnified, three-dimensional view the surgeon experiences enables him to perform precise surgery in complex procedures through small surgical incisions.

The da Vinci System enhances surgical capabilities by enabling the performance of complex surgeries through tiny surgical openings. The System cannot be programmed nor can it make decisions on its own. The da Vinci System requires that every surgical maneuver be performed with direct input from your surgeon. The da Vinci Surgical System has been successfully used in thousands of prostate cancer procedures world-wide.





For patients, there are numerous potential benefits including:

• Shorter hospital stay


• Less pain and less pain medication


• Less risk of infection


• Less blood loss


• Less scarring


• Faster and more complete recovery


• Quicker return to normal activities

Surgical Benefits:

• 3-D visualization provides the surgeon with a true 3-dimensional view of the operating field. This direct and natural hand-eye instrument alignment is similar to open surgery with all-around vision and the ability to zoom-in and zoom-out.


• Dexterity: the da Vinci Robotic System provides the surgeon with intuitive operative controls that allows the experienced surgeon to use his open surgery skills rather than having to use counter-intuitive motions typically required by a laparoscopic approach.


• Surgical Precision: permits the surgeon to manipulate instruments with such accuracy that the current definition of surgical precision is exceeded.


• Range of Motion: the robotic instruments offer the surgeon full range of motion and ability to rotate the instruments through tiny incisions.


• Ergonomics: the surgeon can sit in a comfortable position, allowing him to concentrate fully on the surgery.


• Improved Access: Surgeons perform complex surgical maneuvers through 1-cm ports, eliminating the need for large traumatic incisions.

Source: St Vincent's Clinic