Robotic Bariatric Surgery

Several types of bariatric surgeries are performed by involving the use of robotic systems such as:

• Gastric bypass- It involves performing the procedure by creating a small stomach pouch and the small intestine re-routing to decrease calorie absorption
• Sleeve gastrectomy- This procedure involves the removal of the stomach portion that leaves a stomach in the shape of a banana. 
• Adjustable gastric banding- In this procedure, an adjustable band is involved around the stomach's upper part to restrict food consumption. 
• Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch- It is an intricate procedure involving both food consumption restriction and decreasing the absorption of nutrients.

Here are some of the primary differences between robotic and traditional bariatric surgery:

• Surgical approach- Robotic surgery also known as keyhole surgery involves smaller incisions whereas traditional surgery is performed by making a larger incision and through special tools.
• Visualization- Robotic surgery offers 3D high-definition images offering a clear view to the surgeon whereas, in traditional surgery, surgeons perform the procedure through direct touch with the patient’s body.
• Precision and dexterity- A robotic system offers more precision and dexterity while performing the surgeries whereas, in traditional surgery, handheld equipment is involved to perform the surgery that might not offer much precision and dexterity. 
• Blood loss- In robotic bariatric surgery, there is minimal blood loss whereas in traditional bariatric surgery, it might lead to more blood loss.
• Recovery time- In traditional bariatric surgery, recovery time is longer when compared to robotic bariatric surgery. 
• Postoperative pain- Robotic bariatric surgery doesn’t cause much pain in comparison to traditional surgery.

Certain steps are involved in robotic bariatric surgery that appears to be similar in other minimally invasive bariatric procedures but with additional robotic surgical system assistance like the da Vinci surgical system. Here is what happens during robotic bariatric surgery:

• In this first step, a thorough assessment of the patient is included such as their medical history, physical evaluation, and consultations with a healthcare team to identify their candidature for surgery. 
• Anesthesia is given to the patient so that the patient is unconscious during the procedure and doesn’t experience pain. 
• Smaller incisions are made in the patient’s abdominal area and the size of the incisions varies depending on the utilized robotic system.
• Robotic system setup is involved in the next step. The robot system is placed near the patient and the surgeon performs the surgery by sitting at a console through 3D high-definition images. 
• The surgeon is involved in using robotic arms with special surgical tools with dexterity and precision. 
• Depending on the bariatric surgery type, the surgeon is involved in carrying out the surgery steps. The surgeon receives real-time feedback from the robot throughout the procedure. 
•  After the bariatric surgery is done, the surgeon finishes the operation by closing the incisions with staples, sutures, or small bandages over the operated area.

Here are some of the benefits offered by robotic-assisted surgery:

• Increased flexibility, precision, and control
• 3D high-definition images of the surgical site
• Less of risk of requiring follow-up surgery 
• Less hospital stay 
• Quicker recovery time
• Minimal risk of gastrointestinal leaks
• Reduced risk of shifting to traditional surgery 
• Reduced hand tremors
• Less risk of blood loss

Here are some of the popular myths and facts linked to robotic surgery:

Myths	Facts
Robotic surgery is completely autonomous and doesn’t need human involvement.	Robotic surgery is not autonomous. The robotic system is controlled by a surgeon. It can increase their efficiency but cannot replace the surgeons.
Robotic surgery is a risk and experimental approach.	No, it is not. Robotic surgery is a widely practiced surgical procedure with successful outcomes
Robotic procedure is the best method for bariatric surgeries.	Choosing between traditional and robotic entirely depends on various factors such as surgeon experience, the patient’s medical condition, and the particular surgery type.
Robotic surgery is very expensive for most patients	While there are higher initial equipment costs, it is still becoming popular and insurance servicers usually cover the cost for eligible patients.
Robotic bariatric surgery is not safe	It is one of the most effective and safest surgical procedures and involves smaller incisions, minimal blood loss, less pain, fast recovery, etc.

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Rukmani Birla Hospital, Jaipur is among the eminent multi-special hospitals operating in the city for decades. The hospital has integrated the most amazing and experienced doctors including other staff members. We dedicate ourselves to offering exceptional and satisfactory patient care. The primary objective behind the inception of this hospital is to make healthcare services available to everyone at an affordable cost including the finest treatment. So, if you are looking for robotic-assisted healthcare services then get in touch with our most skilled and highly talented healthcare professionals at RBH.