+27 (012) 940 8278
drventer@urospes.co.za
Suite M31, Third Floor
Netcare Pretoria-East Hospital
C/O Garsfontein and Netcare Road
Moreletapark, Pretoria, 0181
South Africa
Practice Number: 1190792
ROBOTIC SURGERY
Robotic Surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery that enables us to perform complicated surgery through multiple small incisions or access areas. Instead of operating on patients through large incisions, specialized miniature instruments are used that fits through a series of 5 – 12mm port incisions. These miniature instruments are mounted on three separate robotic arms that allows for maximum range of motion and precision. The fourth arm has a special 3D HD camera mounted on it.
The surgeon controls these instruments and camera from a console in the operating room. His fingers are placed in master controls that give him the ability to move and operate each instrument with absolute precision. Vision is of utmost importance and the surgeon looks at the operating field through a stereoscopic high definition monitor that gives a magnified high definition 3D view. This is a much better view of the operating field than the human eye can provide.
These advantages provides the surgeon with much better control and vision of the operating field enabling him to operate with absolute precision, which is necessary for nerve sparing and ultimate continence and potency retention.
Robotic Surgery with the da Vinci Xi Robot at Netcare Pretoria East Hospital
Netcare Pretoria East Hospital is proud to offer the most advanced robotic surgical technology available—the da Vinci Xi model. This state-of-the-art system provides our surgeons with enhanced precision, flexibility, and control, allowing for minimally invasive procedures across multiple disciplines. With its high-definition 3D imaging, wrist-like instruments, and exceptional dexterity, the da Vinci Xi is ideal for complex surgeries in urology, gynaecology, and other surgical specialties. The da Vinci Xi offers significant improvements over traditional laparoscopic and open surgeries by reducing trauma to the body, promoting quicker recovery, and improving overall surgical outcomes. Dr. Johan Venter, who has been involved with robotic surgery since its introduction in 2014, brings extensive experience and expertise to ensure the best possible care for our patients.
1) Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy with or without Pelvic Lymphadenectomy
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is one of the most common procedures for prostate cancer. Using the da Vinci Xi robot, surgeons can precisely remove the prostate while minimizing the risk of damaging nearby critical structures, such as nerves and blood vessels. The high-definition 3D imaging system allows for unparalleled accuracy, which is essential in preserving erectile and urinary function. Pelvic lymphadenectomy can also be performed during the same procedure, offering a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment. Compared to traditional open surgery, robotic-assisted prostatectomy results in less blood loss, smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery, leading to shorter hospital stays and improved postoperative outcomes.
2) Robotic-Assisted Radical and Partial Nephrectomy
Robotic-assisted radical and partial nephrectomy, used for kidney cancer, is another area where the da Vinci Xi excels. This procedure involves the removal of a portion of the kidney or the entire organ. The da Vinci Xi allows for more precise excision of the tumor while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. With its superior dexterity, surgeons can navigate complex structures within the kidney, reducing the risk of complications such as bleeding. Whether performing a radical nephrectomy or a partial nephrectomy, robotic surgery results in smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and quicker recovery times when compared to conventional open surgery.
3) Robotic Sacro colpopexy
Robotic Sacro colpopexy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat pelvic organ prolapse, where the bladder, uterus, or rectum descends from its normal position. The da Vinci Xi robot allows for precise placement of surgical mesh to restore the pelvic organs to their correct position, improving bladder control and overall pelvic function. Compared to traditional methods, robotic Sacro colpopexy offers the advantage of smaller incisions, faster recovery, and reduced pain post-surgery. The enhanced visualization and dexterity provided by the robotic system result in fewer complications and better long-term outcomes.
4) Robotic-Assisted Cystectomy
Robotic-assisted cystectomy is a highly specialized procedure for patients with bladder cancer. The da Vinci Xi robot offers greater precision when removing the bladder and performing subsequent urinary diversion procedures. With its ability to manipulate delicate tissues with fine instruments and superior imaging, robotic surgery ensures minimal disruption to surrounding structures, reducing the likelihood of complications. Robotic-assisted cystectomy has several benefits over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and a faster recovery time, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner and with less postoperative pain.
Advantages of Robotic Surgery Over Laparoscopic and Open Surgery
The da Vinci Xi robotic system represents a significant advancement over both traditional laparoscopic and open surgery techniques. One of the main advantages is the enhanced precision and control it offers the surgeon, with instruments that move with greater accuracy than the human hand. This reduces the risk of complications and allows for minimally invasive procedures, resulting in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times. Robotic surgery also provides superior 3D visualization, giving the surgeon a clearer view of the surgical area. As a result, patients benefit from less blood loss, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recoveries compared to conventional methods. With Dr. Johan Venter’s experience in robotic surgery since 2014, patients at Netcare Pretoria East Hospital are in expert hands when it comes to the latest in surgical technology.
ERECTILE FUNCTION
Another advantage of robotic prostatectomy is the improved ability to preserve the erectile nerves. During an open prostatectomy the nerves that provide erection are hidden behind the prostate. The approach taken using the surgical robot, enters the abdomen and the robotic arms are positioned posterior to the prostate with the nerves directly in front of the robotic/laparoscopic camera. In this way, the nerves maybe preserved, primarily because the anatomy can be seen more clearly compared to open surgery.
ADVANTAGES FOR THE PATIENT
Less Scarring
Instead of having a large abdominal surgical scar, minimally invasive surgery provides access for surgery through a number of small incisoins- ultimately resulting in less scarring.
Shorter Hospital Stay
With smaller incisions the post-operative pain is less. This results in a shorter hospital stay and earlier return to work and normal daily activity.
Postoperative Catheterization
The catheter is typically removed 2 to 3 weeks after open surgery. After Robotic surgery the catheter is removed after 3 to 7 days.
Decreased Blood Loss
During open surgery typical blood loss ranges from 600ml to 1000ml. With Robotic surgery, as for Laparoscopic surgery the amount of blood loss is significantly reduced to about 200ml. This reduces the risk of having a blood transfusion during or after surgery.
For more information on the daVinci XI® system and Robotic Assisted Prostatectomy click on the button below.