Q&A with a Surgeon: daVinci Surgical Robot
Kimberly Evans, MD
Since 2012, Barton Health’s surgery department has offered procedures with da Vinci, a state-of-the-art surgical technology system that offers minimally invasive procedures and can reduce patient’s time in the hospital. And in 2019, a $2.1 million investment brought the da Vinci Xi, the latest in robotic-assisted surgery featuring a new overhead instrument arm and a highly-magnified view from its 3D-HD vision.
What is minimally-invasive surgery?
Minimally-invasive surgery is performed through small incisions – also known as ports or keyhole incisions – rather than large incisions required for manual access to surgical sites.
Does the da Vinci Xi Surgery system replace the need for a surgeon?
No. With da Vinci, the surgeon is completely in control of the robotic-assisted procedure, which translates hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient’s body. Your surgeon is with you in the operating room, seated at the da Vinci system console.
The da Vinci Xi improves the surgeon’s range of motion, precision, and reach during surgery. In addition, the robot offers a highly-magnified, three-dimensional view, improving visualization of the surgical area.
What are the benefits of using the da Vinci Surgical System compared to traditional methods of surgery?
Some surgical techniques, such as open surgery, require large incisions in skin and muscle so that surgeons can directly see and work on the area of concern. Though open surgery has advantages in medical care, many procedures can now be performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic-technology, such as da Vinci technology.
During surgery with daVinci, your surgeon uses technology to move tiny instruments with smooth precision. This accuracy means that the surgeon can make smaller cuts, which can result in potential benefits for the patient, including less blood loss, less scarring, shorter hospital stays, less pain, less risk of infection, faster recovery, and a quicker return to normal daily activities.
What surgical specialties use the da Vinci surgical system?
Surgeons from Barton General Surgery and Barton Obstetrics & Gynecology utilize the da Vinci Xi surgical system for colorectal, gynecologic, and general surgery procedures.
Every person is different, and your provider will have guidance on whether surgery with da Vinci technology is appropriate for your condition.
Dr. Kim Evans is a board-certified surgeon, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and the Trauma Medical Director at Barton Health. For more information on minimally-invasive surgical options at Barton Health, visit BartonHealth.org.
