Robotic-assisted hysterectomy is considered safe and effective
Q: My OB/GYN is recommending I have a robotic-assisted hysterectomy. Why would this be better than traditional surgery?
A: “Hysterectomy
to remove the uterus is a common surgery for women. Many places, like Kelsey-Seybold, offer robotic-assisted hysterectomies. While not suitable for every hysterectomy, robotic-assisted surgery is often a good alternative to traditional open surgery and has several advantages for the patient,” says Jagjit Khairah, D.O., F.A.C.O.G., a board-certified Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.
Open surgery requires a large incision in the abdomen. Your surgeon removes the uterus through this incision. Not only can open surgery leave more noticeable scarring, it also puts patients at a higher risk for blood loss and infection. Robotic-assisted hysterectomies are done laparoscopically through one to five tiny incisions around the abdomen. They are far less invasive and reduce the risk of blood loss, infection, and serious scarring.
“During a robotic-assisted hysterectomy, your surgeon uses a computer, called the da Vinci Surgical System®, to control surgical instruments steadily and precisely. In fact, it requires every surgical maneuver to be performed by the surgeon. The system can’t be programmed or make decisions or movements on its own,” assures Dr. Khairah. “In the hands of a surgeon who has training and extensive experience in robotic-assisted surgery, it’s considered safe and effective, and it’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration.”
Because robotic-assisted hysterectomies are less invasive, patients typically experience reduced downtime following the procedure. Patients usually have fewer complications and a lower length of hospital stay, which means they heal faster and can get back to their daily routine in less time. Patients often report they experience less pain following a robotic-assisted hysterectomy.
“To find out if you’re a good candidate for a robotic-assisted hysterectomy, talk to your doctor,” says Dr. Khairah, who cares for patients at Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center in Sugar Land.