Let's learn about Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy?

Did your doctor tell you that you need to have a hysterectomy ? When he said that, did he also tell you that robotic technology will be used for this surgery? "Oh, is a robot going to do my surgery?" You may be feeling a little scared and curious. That's normal. But don't worry. This is actually a very advanced and safe procedure. Let's talk about everything clearly and simply today.

Simply put, what is this robotic hysterectomy surgery?

This is also a surgical procedure to remove your uterus . But instead of making a large incision in your abdomen like the traditional procedure, it involves making a few very small incisions in your abdomen . Then, the surgeon inserts tiny instruments, such as robotic arms, into the incisions. This method is called 'minimally invasive surgery' because it causes very little damage to the body. Advanced technological systems such as the ``da Vinci surgical system'' are usually used for this.

Why do surgeons choose this method?

There are several benefits to a doctor using this method, which can help you achieve better results.

• A crystal-clear view: The surgical area can be viewed in three-dimensional (3D) format, on a high-definition screen... magnified about 15 times . That means even delicate nerves and blood vessels that are invisible to the naked eye can be clearly seen.
• Precise movements: Robotic arms can work more precisely, accurately, and without moving than a human arm. Since they can rotate 360 ​​degrees, they can easily reach and perform surgeries even in areas that are difficult to reach by hand.
• Unwavering stability: The surgeon's hand can become tired during a long operation. But the robotic arm does not get tired, so it can work with precision and in the same position throughout the entire operation.

In what cases is this surgery recommended?

Hysterectomy surgery is not the same for everyone. Your doctor will decide whether robotic surgery is right for you. This method can be especially useful for those who are obese or have complications from previous surgeries, such as pelvic adhesive disease. Your doctor may recommend this surgery as a treatment for the following conditions:

Let's take a closer look at how the surgery is performed.

This is a type of surgery called ``laparoscopic surgery.`` That is, a thin tube with a camera called ``laparoscope`` is used.

Before surgery

Before the surgery, your doctor will examine you and do some blood and urine tests to check your general health. He or she will explain the surgery, its risks, and what to expect after the surgery. This is the best time to ask any questions you may have. He or she will also advise you on what to stop eating and drinking the night before the surgery, what medications to continue taking, and what medications to stop.

On the day of surgery

You will need to come to the hospital a few hours before your surgery. There, a nurse will put a small tube (IV line) into a vein in your arm to give you saline. This is where you will receive fluids and medications during the surgery. After you are anesthetized and asleep, the medical team in the operating room will do the following:

• A urinary catheter is inserted to keep the bladder empty.
• Your abdominal area will be thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
• Your arms and legs will be positioned in the correct position to facilitate the surgery.

Steps of the surgery

After you are asleep, the surgeon makes 4 or 5 very small incisions in your abdomen, about one centimeter long. Through these incisions, a camera (laparoscope) and surgical instruments connected to robotic arms are inserted. The surgeon sits at a computer console a short distance away from you. The robotic arms are controlled by a device similar to a video game controller. When he looks through a special lens, he sees a 3D view of the area being operated on. Foot pedals can be used to zoom in and out. After the surgery, the doctor will close the small incision with stitches and apply a bandage. Most people can go home the same evening after this surgery. However, some people may have to stay in the hospital overnight.

What are the advantages of this method compared to traditional surgery?

There are several clear advantages to robotic surgery over open surgery.

Let's learn about the recovery time after surgery.

Although this is a major surgery, recovery is relatively quick. It can take about 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover . However, you should be able to do some light work within 24-48 hours after surgery. It is very important to have someone to help you during the first few days, as you may feel a little tired and sore.

Things not to do after surgery

Your doctor will advise you on this. In general, you should avoid these things:

• Lifting weights: Do not lift anything heavier than 7 kg (15 lbs) for at least 4 weeks.
• Sexual intercourse: Avoid having sex or inserting anything into the vagina for 6 weeks.
• Using Tampons : If you have spotting, use pads instead of tampons.
• Water: Avoid soaking in a bathtub or swimming pool for two weeks. You can shower 24-48 hours after surgery.
• Strenuous exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise for 4 to 6 weeks. However, walking a little every day can help speed up recovery.

Risks and when to see a doctor

As with any surgery, there are some risks. For example, bleeding, infection, reactions to anesthesia, and damage to surrounding organs like the bladder. However, these risks are significantly lower than with traditional surgery .

• If the incision sites are red, swollen, oozing pus , or are in severe pain (these are signs of infection).
• If you have a fever of 38 Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) or higher .
• If there is excessive vaginal bleeding .
• If you have difficulty breathing or chest pain .
• If you have severe pain that cannot be controlled even with medication.

Sometimes you may feel sad and lonely after surgery. Because you are thinking about not being able to have children and not having periods. It is normal to have such feelings. If you feel this way, talk to your doctor or someone close to you about it. hysterectomy, robotic surgery, hysterectomy, robotic surgery, women's health, minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopy