da Vinci Robotic Surgery

First there was traditional surgery, with large incisions and long hospital stays. Then came minimally invasive surgery, with a camera to guide the surgeon. Now, people in the Lehigh Valley can benefit from next-generation robotic surgery. Lehigh Valley Health Network offers robotic surgery with the da Vinci^® S HD Surgical System.

Surgeons are using the da Vinci robot to perform prostate cancer surgeries, hysterectomies, removal of fibroids and repair of vaginal vault prolapse. The robot gives your surgeon the ability to perform complex and delicate surgery with unmatched precision. Yet the scarring is minimal, and most patients have less pain, less time in the hospital and a faster recovery than with traditional surgery.

How da Vinci robotic surgery works

Instead of a long incision, the surgeon makes incisions that are just 1 to 2 centimeters–less than an inch. The robot's arms, which hold the surgical instruments, and a camera are inserted through these tiny incisions.

The camera inside your body magnifies the picture 10 times and transmits the image in 3D high definition, so your surgeon has an excellent view. The doctor holds controls that feel like surgical instruments. When the surgeon moves his hand even a tiny bit, the robot reacts, following the doctor's hand movements exactly.

The maneuverability, precise reactions of the robot and visual clarity make it possible for your surgeon to operate confidently, with no need for a large incision.

What robotic precision means to patients

The tiny incisions cause less trauma to your body. That means less blood loss, less pain after surgery and less risk for infection. Because robotic surgery is not as hard on your body as traditional surgery, you may be able to go home sooner—sometimes even the next day—and you will probably recover faster.

• Benefits for men who need prostate cancer surgery: Studies have shown that most men have a rapid return of sexual function and bladder control after da Vinci-assisted surgery for prostate cancer. Of course, every man is different, so be sure to talk over your concerns with your surgeon.
• Benefits for women who need gynecologic surgery: The da Vinci robot makes it possible to have a hysterectomy with very small incisions. The robot makes it easier for your doctor to remove fibroids while leaving your uterus in place. When your surgeon uses the da Vinci system, you can usually expect to go home to your family faster, with less pain.

Is robotic surgery right for you?

Robotic surgery is an option that wasn't even possible just a few years ago. Now, it's everyday surgery at Lehigh Valley Health Network. To find out if robotic surgery is a good choice for you, talk to your surgeon, urologist, gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist.

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This page last updated 11/2/09 10:42 AM