Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy
Have you been told you need a hysterectomy? At Women’s HealthFirst in northwest suburban Chicago, we offer our patients the option of an innovative, minimally invasive surgical option: hysterectomy with robotic assistance.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
For many years, conventional surgery has been performed using large incisions and invasive methods that carry a relatively high rate of complications. As technology has advanced, however, new surgical tools and techniques allow for more nimble and precise actions during surgery. These advances also reduce the risks and potential complications of many surgeries, including those performed to treat gynecological conditions. Robotic-assisted surgery is among these advanced surgical methods.
During a robotic-assisted surgery, your surgeon uses a special console to control a mechanical arm designed to move and carry out intricate tasks in tight spaces. The mechanical arm mimics the movements of a surgeon’s hands and can move in ways a human hand cannot. A special magnifying camera is attached to the arm. This allows extremely close-up views, and crisp and clear 3D details of the surgical site during the procedure.
It is important to note that the entire procedure, from start to finish, is under the complete control of your surgeon, who remains in the operating room the whole time. Many OB-GYNs believe that robotic-assisted hysterectomies offer significantly more control and accuracy than conventional surgical techniques.
Why Choose Robotic-Assisted Surgery
At Women’s HealthFirst, we use the da Vinci Surgical System, which allows your surgeon access to robotic assistance during a hysterectomy. This enhances your surgeon’s abilities, especially during complex procedures in confined spaces.
For example, the mechanical arm can rotate 360° – something no surgeon’s arm can do. It can fit into the tiniest of spaces in the body, while still retaining its maneuverability. The camera can get closer to the surgical site than any other method. All of these advantages result in a surgery that can more precisely target a specific area, so that nearby healthy tissue can be spared.
In short, your surgeon gains greater precision, flexibility, and control during a robotic-assisted surgery.
Patients, meanwhile, reap all the rewards of a minimally invasive procedure that uses the least-invasive techniques and greatest precision possible, including:
- Reduced post-op pain
- Less scarring and bleeding
- Faster recovery time and return to daily activities
- Lowered risk of infection and other complications
- Shorter hospital stay, if one is required
What to Expect
During a robotic-assisted hysterectomy, your surgeon will employ other minimally invasive laparoscopic methods to ensure your post-op recovery is as comfortable and quick as possible.
For example, several tiny incisions are made, rather than one large incision across the abdomen. Gas is typically pumped into your belly to provide more working room for the procedure. Your surgeon will use the da Vinci Surgical System specialized console to control the robotic arm and instruments that will enter the body through an incision to carry out the procedure. The uterus (and any other pelvic organs being removed) are detached and reduced into pieces that can be easily removed through the incisions.
The entire procedure may take 3-4 hours.
Opt for Minimally Invasive Robotic Hysterectomy
Erwin Szela, MD, FACOG, MIGS, MBA at Women’s HealthFirst is a certified da Vinci surgeon. He performs minimally invasive robotic hysterectomy at St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates and Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights.
Robotic Hysterectomy Procedures in Palatine, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Barrington & Bartlett, IL
If you’re interested in a robotic hysterectomy, call Women’s HealthFirst at (847) 808-8884 to schedule your consultation. You can also simply request your appointment now. Be sure to mention that you’re interested in discussing your hysterectomy options, including a robotic-assisted procedure.
