Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery
About the procedure
Technology in medicine has progressed to the point where common bariatric procedures (gastric bypass surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, anti-reflux surgery, and revisions) can be performed by two different advanced and minimally-invasive approaches: laparoscopic or robotic access. Both are ideal for those looking for minimally-invasive bariatric surgery. Both techniques require (on average) 4-6 minimal incisions.
How It Works
Robotic-assisted bariatric surgery enhances your surgeon’s ability to perform highly sophisticated and precise maneuvers. It’s important to note that the system doesn’t do the surgeon’s job for them or automate the surgery, but rather simply improves their existing capabilities. Robotic surgery is “a new weapon in the fight against obesity” and as such is a critical tool in our center’s use of all state-of-the-art options in the care of our patients.
The choice of laparoscopic versus robotic access is based on the technical needs of your surgery and your surgeon’s preference for access and visualization based on your anatomy and their technique preferences and experience.
Laparoscopic surgery involves the use of high-definition monitors to show the operative field and instrument movements. For the last 20 years, it has been the standard of care in minimally-invasive surgery. Laparoscopy for surgical interventions made surgery faster, less painful, and easier to recover from than standard open procedures.
Robotic bariatric surgery using da Vinci technology sees a translation of every movement your surgeon makes in real-time, with the system bending and rotating instruments that move like a human hand but with a much greater range of motion. Robotic surgery gives 3D high-definition views throughout the surgery, allowing a crystal-clear view of the surgical area that is magnified 10 times what the human eye can see.
Health Benefits
Minimal-access techniques of laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery have huge benefits linked to safety, weight-loss surgical results, and ease of recovery.
Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery Benefits
- Shorter hospitalization
- Minimal scarring and cosmetic results
- Faster recovery time
What Are The Risks?
As with any surgery, there are possible associated risks. In our consenting and education process, we will review all risks and benefits in great detail. However, compared to traditional open surgery, there are fewer risks and fewer complications as the surgery is less traumatic to the body.
Most patients find that, with laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery, there is reduced pain and scarring and a quicker return to their regular routines. As with all bariatric surgery, patients require general anesthesia. We always ensure we are prepared for any negative side effects and will ensure you are as comfortable as possible.
How Much Will Your Procedure Cost?
We are able to help you with checking with your insurer to cover your surgery. If you do not have bariatric surgery as an insurance benefit or do not have insurance, we also offer competitive self-pay rates.
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What To Expect After Your Procedure
Because robotic and laparoscopic bariatric surgeries are less invasive than other forms of surgery, there’s a good chance that your recovery will be relatively quick due to reduced scarring and pain. However, most patients who have robotic bariatric surgery should expect a two- to three-week recovery period after surgery in order to fully resume a normal life. Staying rested is pivotal in allowing your body to heal and adjust and it’s also important to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how many calories and what kinds of foods you should be consuming during this period. Avoid exercising until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead to do so.
Ultimately, your recovery period will go as well as you want it to, as long as you collaborate with your surgical and weight-loss team. It’s important that you follow a healthier lifestyle than what you had before surgery otherwise you risk regaining the weight you lost. Remember the reasons why you opted for robotic bariatric surgery in the first place and put in a concerted effort to maintain your new lifestyle.