What if a robot told you to operate on me? Let's talk about robotic surgery.

When you think of a "robot" performing an operation, you think of a scene from a science fiction movie, right? But in fact, this is a very advanced technology that is now being successfully used in our medical field. But don't be afraid, in this case, a robot will not perform the operation on you alone. In fact, complete control is in the hands of your surgeon. So what is this robotic surgery? Let's talk about it simply.

Simply put, what is robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery is a highly advanced technique used by surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures . Robotic technology is used to assist the surgeon. It is like enhancing the surgeon's hands.

There are three main parts to this technology:

1. Robotic arms: These arms are equipped with very small, delicate instruments needed for surgery. They can work more accurately, delicately, and in a smaller space than a human hand.

2. A high-tech 3D camera: This camera shows the surgeon a very clear, magnified, three-dimensional (3D) view of the area being operated on. Therefore, even the smallest veins and tissue inside can be clearly seen.

3. Surgical console: This is where your surgeon sits and controls the robotic arm and camera. This is a bit like the `joysticks` in a video game. Every movement the surgeon makes using these controllers is then performed by the robotic arm at the operating site.

Do you need special training to perform these surgeries?

Yes, absolutely. Surgeons must receive special, additional training to perform surgeries using robotic technology. Some doctors even complete training programs, such as a `fellowship`, specifically for this purpose. Therefore, only doctors who are well-trained and experienced in this technology use this technology.

What are the most common uses of robotic surgery?

Nowadays, specialists in various fields use this technology. For example:

• General surgeons
• Brain and spine surgeons
• Cardiothoracic surgeons
• Colorectal and Gastrointestinal surgeons
• Gynecologic surgeons
• Urologists

Let's look at some common surgeries performed using this technology below.

How is this surgery done?

The basic techniques used in robotic surgery are similar to those used in conventional open surgery. The main difference is in the way the doctor enters the area being operated on.

Instead of one large incision like in traditional surgery, only a few very small incisions are used. Also, the surgical instruments do not need a lot of space to work. Therefore, there is little need to push the surrounding tissue and muscles back and forth.

Here is a step-by-step guide to how the surgery is performed:

1. First, the doctor makes one or more very small incisions in the relevant area of ​​your body.

2. Thin tubes called `ports` are inserted through these incisions. These are like temporary tunnels that allow surgical instruments to pass through.

3. Next, the robot is connected to these `ports` and surgical instruments are inserted through them.

4. A long, thin camera (an endoscope) is inserted through one of the ports. This is what provides clear 3D views throughout the surgery.

5. Sitting at a console a few feet away from you, the surgeon controls the robotic arm and performs the surgery.

6. After the surgery is complete, all the instruments and ports are removed, and the small incisions are closed with stitches.

What are the advantages of robotic surgery?

Compared to traditional open surgery, robotic surgery has several advantages for both the patient and the doctor.

So there are no disadvantages?

As with anything, there are a few things to consider with this method. These can be called limitations rather than disadvantages.

• Not in all hospitals: Because this is a very advanced and expensive technology, this facility and the doctors trained for it are only available in some specialized hospitals.
• Possibility of switching to open surgery: Sometimes, for example, if there is severe scar tissue from a previous surgery, it may be difficult to perform the surgery robotically. In such cases, for the safety of the patient, the doctor may have to switch to traditional open surgery.
• Very small risk of nerve damage: As with any surgery, there is a very small risk of pressure or damage to the nerves.
• Technical errors: These are very rare, meaning they may happen once in a thousand years. However, there are special methods to control them if they do happen.

How long does it take to recover after surgery?

Typically, the recovery time is much shorter than for open surgery. This can vary depending on the type of surgery you have and your overall health. But in general:

• You will be able to get out of bed shortly after regaining consciousness from anesthesia.
• You may be able to eat a few hours after the surgery.
• You can often go home the same day or the next day after surgery.

Take care of these things when you go home.

Your doctor will give you specific instructions, but in general, keep these things in mind:

• Take a good rest for a few days.
• Start your daily routine slowly. Don't overdo it all at once.
• If you don't need to take the painkillers prescribed by the doctor, you can start driving when you feel comfortable.
• Avoid lifting weights completely until you see the doctor again.
• Always check the incision sites for signs of infection (high temperature, pus, discoloration).
• Use the medicine your doctor prescribes exactly for pain or to prevent constipation.

If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately!

If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor or go to the hospital immediately.

So is robotic surgery the best method?

This is a question that many people ask. It's not clear that robotic surgery is "better" than other methods. It is another very advanced and successful option. Your doctor will decide which method is best for you. He or she will consider the following factors when making that decision:

• The type of surgery you want to have.
• Your overall health.
• The surgeon's expertise and experience.
• The technical facilities at the hospital.

Therefore, if you need surgery, talk openly with your doctor about whether robotic surgery is a suitable option for you.