Robotic surgery is transforming the world of surgery, making procedures more precise, safe, and comfortable for patients and surgeons alike.
ROBOTIC surgery is transforming the world of surgery, making procedures more precise, safe, and comfortable for patients and surgeons alike.
Robotics has added a new dimension to surgical care, especially in areas like hernia surgery. Let us take a closer look at what robotic surgery is, how it started, and what makes it different from traditional methods.
A brief history of robotic surgery
Robotic surgery first emerged in the late 1980s as an experiment to see if robotics could assist doctors in complicated procedures.
It began with some initial trials in heart surgeries, where precision was key and on the warfront where surgeons could not gain safe access to injured soldiers. Over time, technology improved, and by the early 2000s, robotic surgery became a popular choice for urology and gynaecology.
General surgery took a bit longer to adopt robotics, but as technology became more advanced and accessible, it made its way into various types of surgery including those involving the stomach, intestines and hernias. Currently, robotic surgeries performed worldwide are in the areas of general surgery.
How robotic surgery works
In robotic surgery, the surgeon sits at a console (similar to a high-tech computer station) and controls small robotic arms that perform the actual surgery.
These arms can make very precise movements – far more than a human hand can.
In robotic surgery, the surgeon sits at a console (similar to a high-tech computer station) and controls small robotic arms that perform the actual surgery.
The surgeon can see high-definition, 3D images of the surgery area, giving a much better view than they would get with their own eyes.
With this, surgeons can work more accurately and comfortably, especially for procedures that require careful work near sensitive areas.
It is very important that the surgery is performed by the surgeon, hence the term robot-assisted.
What makes robotic surgery special?
Robotic surgery has some key features that set it apart: > Precision: The robotic arms can make exact movements that are almost impossible with regular tools. This is especially useful in delicate procedures. > Better visualisation: The surgeon can see the surgery area in 3D with high definition, making it easier to identify and work around important structures. > Flexibility: The robotic tools can move more freely than traditional instruments, almost like a wrist. This allows for better control in tight spaces. > Comfort: The surgeon operates from a seated position with ergonomic controls, reducing fatigue, which is a real benefit during long or difficult surgeries.
Why robotic surgery is a game-changerRobotic surgery has brought numerous benefits that make it a valuable choice for patients and doctors alike.
Some of the main advantages include: > Less pain: Robotic surgery generally leads to smaller incisions, which often means less pain, less use of painkillers and a quicker recovery for patients. > Lower risk of infection: With smaller and more distant incisions, there’s a reduced chance of infection. > Faster recovery: Patients can usually return to their regular activities sooner than with traditional surgery. > Cosmetically pleasing scars: The smaller incisions mean that scars are less visible, which can be a big plus for patients.
Robotic surgery in hernia repair
In my field of interest, hernia repair and robotic surgery have become especially useful.
Whether it is a groin hernia or a larger abdominal hernia, robotic surgery allows us to work more accurately in these areas, especially for large and complex hernias.
For example: > Groin hernias: Robotic tools make it easier to place the mesh (a common material used to reinforce weak areas) securely and precisely. > Ventral and incisional hernias: For these hernias, robotic surgery allows us to do complex repairs that would be challenging with traditional methods. > Hiatal hernias: In cases where the stomach pushes up into the chest, robotic surgery provides the surgeon with a better view of the diaphragm, making it easier to repair the hernia and reduce the risk of it coming back.
Robotic surgery brings a new level of precision and control that is reshaping how we approach hernia surgery and other procedures.
In summary, robotic surgery represents an exciting development in healthcare, offering patients safer, more effective, and faster recovery options for many types of surgery.
As technology continues to advance, we are eager to see how robotic surgery will further improve patient care in the years to come.
By Dr Vimal K. Vasudeavan
Consultant General Surgeon
Gleneagles Hospital Penang
KKLIU: 3677 / EXP: 31.12.2026
