Robotic Surgery FAQ
What is robotic or robotic-assisted surgery?
Although it's called robotic surgery, it's important to understand that your surgeon is controlling every aspect of the surgery with the assistance of robotic technology. From a console in the operating room, the surgeon remotely manipulates tiny surgical instruments, which are attached to robotic arms, to perform surgery through small incisions. As the surgeon views a magnified 3-D image of the surgical site inside your body, advanced computer and robotic technology translate the surgeon's hand movements into precise movements of the instruments. These specialized surgical instruments can bend and rotate far greater than the human hand and wrist, which allows the surgeon to operate with enhanced precision, dexterity and control.
During robotic-assisted surgery, can the surgeon feel anything inside the patient's chest or abdomen?
Advanced computer and robotic technology provide feedback sensations from the operative site back to the surgeon throughout the procedure, which offers a substitute for tactile sensation. High-definition, magnified 3-D imaging provides further information to the surgeon.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for robotic-assisted surgery?
Ask your doctor or surgeon about robotic-assisted surgical options. Your doctor will review your diagnosis and health history to determine whether robotic-assisted surgery is the best choice for you.
How long does it take to recover from robotic-assisted surgery?
Many patients experience significantly faster recovery times with robotic-assisted surgeries compared with traditional surgeries. Your recovery time will depend on the type of procedure you received, and your age and overall health status.
How do I find the right surgeon?
Visit the Find a Doctor page where you'll find highly qualified surgeons who are specially trained to perform robotic-assisted surgery.
Does the surgeon work with my current doctor?
As with any surgical procedure — including robotic-assisted surgery — your doctor will consult with the surgeon before you undergo surgery. With increasing positive results and improved patient outcomes, your doctor is probably well aware of robotic-assisted surgery and its benefits.
Is robotic-assisted surgery more expensive?
Robotic-assisted surgery is typically no more expensive than traditional surgery. And, depending on the specific procedure being performed, it can be far less costly.
Will my insurance cover robotic-assisted surgery?
Any insurance that covers minimally invasive surgery generally covers robotic-assisted surgery, including widely held insurance plans like Medicare. However, check with your provider to find out whether you're covered under your specific plan.
Are there any benefits of robotic-assisted surgery compared with traditional surgical methods?
Some of the major benefits experienced by surgeons performing robotic-assisted techniques over traditional approaches can include greater surgical precision, increased range of motion, improved dexterity, and enhanced visualization.
Does robotic-assisted surgery have a higher success rate than traditional procedures?
No surgical technique can guarantee a successful outcome. However, patients who've undergone robotic-assisted surgeries report a greater percentage of successful outcomes over traditional surgeries.