Robotic Surgery in Women's Health

Robert DeSantis, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology
Trinity OB/GYN

The use of the da Vinci Surgical System in gynecologic surgery has increased exponentially over the past couple of years.  The system was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in gynecologic surgery in 2005.  Advantages of the robot-assisted surgery include improved precision and dexterity which is obtained by the EndoWrist instrumentation.  This allows for elimination of any surgeon tremor as well as fatigue issues.  Also, the magnification and 3-dimensional view are superior to conventional 2-dimension laparoscopy.

 

The da Vinci system has simplified many of the current minimally invasive procedures that were challenging or complex due to the improved instrumentation.  Traditional laparoscopic surgery has been used in gynecologic procedures for years, however, acceptance has been variable.  Only a small group of skilled surgeons have attempted complex procedures using minimally invasive techniques.  The da Vinci system has allowed more surgeons to perform complex procedures with a minimally invasive approach.  

 

Currently at Trinity Medical Center, we are performing hysterectomies (uterus), oophorectomies (ovaries), myomectomies (fibroid tumors), endometriosis procedures, prolapse/incontinence procedures, bilateral tubal ligation reversals as well as complex gynecologic procedures that generally require opening the abdomen.  These procedures are generally done with 2-4 small incisions.  Single site surgery for gynecologic procedures is currently pending FDA approval.