Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Robotic surgery represents an important advancement in the treatment of gynecologic cancers. It offers numerous advantages over traditional surgical methods.
Dr. Stacey South, MD, gynecological oncologist with Manatee Physician Alliance, explains the benefits of this type of surgery for cancers of the reproductive system.
Q: What is gynecologic oncology?
A: Gynecologic oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and research of cancers that affect the female reproductive system. These cancers include ovarian, uterine, cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers.
Q: What is gynecologic robotic surgery?
A: Gynecologic robotic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses a narrow, lighted scope and miniature instruments controlled through a robotic system, such as the da Vinci Surgical System®. It focuses on female reproductive organs and provides an alternative surgical tool for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.
Q: What are the advantages of robotic surgery over traditional surgical techniques?
A: There are a number of advantages of using the robot to assist in surgeries of the reproductive tract:
. This technology allows surgeons to operate with high precision through small incisions, enhancing their ability to treat various gynecologic cancers.
. The minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery results in less blood loss compared to open surgery.
. Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays and faster return to normal activities.
. High-definition, 3D imaging provides better visualization of the surgical area.
Q: What are some of the common procedures that use robotic surgery?
. Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, often performed to treat uterine cancer.
. Oophorectomy: Removal of the ovaries, typically for ovarian cancer.
. Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of lymph nodes to determine the spread of cancer.
Studies have shown that robotic surgery can lead to better, outcomes compared to traditional surgery. However, patient selection is important, and not all patients may be suitable candidates for robotic surgery.
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if minimally invasive, robotic surgery is right for you. Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.
