Overview and definition
Robotic‑assisted surgery (often using systems like the da Vinci platform) is a form of minimally invasive surgery in which the surgeon controls robotic arms from a console while viewing a magnified 3D image of the operative field. The robot does not operate autonomously; every movement of the instruments comes from the surgeon’s hand and foot controls, which are translated into fine, tremor‑filtered movements inside the body.
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Key components typically include:
A surgeon’s console with 3D high‑definition vision and hand/foot controls.
A patient‑side cart with 3–4 robotic arms holding a camera and instruments.
Specialized wristed instruments that can bend and rotate beyond the range of the human hand.
Purpose and clinical use
Robotic systems are used to perform complex procedures through small incisions, often as an alternative to open surgery or standard laparoscopy. They are widely applied in:
- Urology (for example, radical prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy, kidney/ureter surgery).
- Gynecology (hysterectomy, myomectomy, endometrial and cervical cancer surgery).
- General and colorectal surgery (colon and rectal cancer, diverticular disease, IBD surgery, bariatric procedures).
- Thoracic and cardiac surgery (lung resections, mitral valve repair, some coronary procedures).
- Head and neck/ENT, thyroid, and selected pediatric operations.
The main aims are to improve precision in narrow or delicate areas, reduce surgical trauma, and potentially speed up recovery.
Evaluation before treatment
Before robotic surgery, patients undergo standard preoperative evaluation plus specific assessment of whether a robotic, laparoscopic, or open approach is most appropriate. This usually includes:
- Full medical history, physical exam, and review of prior surgeries and imaging.
- Assessment of heart–lung fitness and anesthesia risks.
- Evaluation of disease stage and anatomy to confirm that a minimally invasive approach is safe and feasible.
The surgical team also discusses benefits, alternatives, and the particular risks of robotic systems (including rare device‑related failures), as part of informed consent.
Surgery and recovery
During robotic surgery, the patient is positioned and ports are placed for the robotic arms, the system is docked, and the surgeon operates from the console while the team remains at the bedside. Compared with open surgery, robotic‑assisted procedures typically use several small (about 1–2 cm) incisions rather than one large incision.
Common recovery features include:
- Less postoperative pain and reduced need for strong pain medicines.
- Smaller scars and lower risk of wound‑related infection.
- Less blood loss and often shorter hospital stay.
- Faster return to daily activities compared with comparable open procedures.
However, as with any surgery, risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, anesthesia complications, and rare equipment problems still exist.
Follow‑up and support
After robotic surgery, follow‑up visits are used to monitor wound healing, review pathology results if tissue was removed, adjust medications, and gradually clear patients for full activity. Support may include:
- Guidance on pain control, wound care, and early mobilization.
- Lifestyle advice relevant to the underlying condition (for example, diet and activity after bariatric or colorectal surgery).
- Clear instructions on warning signs such as fever, increasing pain, redness, or breathing problems that need urgent review.
Hospitals with robotic programs emphasize surgeon training and credentialing, standardized protocols, and transparent discussion of benefits and limitations as part of ongoing quality and safety.
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Who benefits from robotic surgery?
Robotic surgery is not a gimmick; it is the superior choice for surgeries in deep, narrow spaces or where extreme precision is required.
Urology (Prostate & Kidney)
Prostatectomy: The prostate sits deep in the pelvis, surrounded by nerves that control erections and bladder function. The Da Vinci robot allows us to peel the prostate away from these nerves with unmatched delicacy, preserving sexual function and continence.
Partial Nephrectomy: Removing a tumor from a kidney while saving the healthy part of the organ requires speed and precision. The robot makes this easier than open surgery.
Gynecology (Uterus & Fibroids)
Hysterectomy: For cancer or large fibroids. We can remove a large uterus through tiny incisions, reducing hospital stay from 4 days to 1 day.
Myomectomy: Removing fibroids while preserving the uterus for future pregnancy. The robot allows for precise multi-layer stitching, crucial for the strength of the uterus during labor.
General Surgery (Colon & Obesity)
Colorectal Cancer: Removing part of the colon (colectomy) and reconnecting it deep in the pelvis.
Bariatric Surgery: Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy are performed with greater safety in super-obese patients, as the robotic arms do not tire against thick abdominal walls.
Orthopedics (Joint Replacement)
Knee & Hip: Mako allows us to align the implant perfectly with your unique mechanical axis. A perfectly aligned joint feels more natural and lasts longer than one placed by “eyeballing” it.
Why travel to Turkey for robotic surgery?
High Volume, High Skill: Robotic surgery is a learned skill. A surgeon who does 500 robotic cases a year is vastly different from one who does 10. Our surgeons are “High Volume” operators and often serve as proctors (teachers) for other surgeons in the region.
Multidisciplinary Council: We don’t just operate. Your case is reviewed by a Tumor Board (for cancer) or an Orthopedic Council. We ensure surgery is the right choice for you.
Fast-Track Recovery (ERAS): We combine robotic precision with “Enhanced Recovery After Surgery” protocols. This includes special anesthesia and early walking, allowing international patients to fly home sooner.
Why choose the robotic surgery?
Smaller Incisions: Instead of a 20cm cut, we use 4–5 incisions of 1cm. This means better cosmetics and less risk of infection.
Less Pain: Less trauma to the muscle means less need for narcotic painkillers.
Less Blood Loss: The 3D vision allows us to see and seal tiny blood vessels instantly. Most robotic patients do not need blood transfusions.
Faster Return to Life: Most prostatectomy patients go home in 1–2 days. Most knee replacement patients walk within hours.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is robotic surgery safe?
Yes. Studies show that robotic surgery has complication rates equal to or lower than open surgery. In fact, for complex cancer surgeries (like prostate or rectal cancer), it often has lower rates of complications (like blood loss or wound infection) because it is less invasive.
What happens if the robot breaks down?
Robotic failure is extremely rare (less than 0.5%). However, safety is our priority. Every robotic system has redundant safety checks and backup batteries. If a mechanical issue were to occur, the robot can be disengaged in seconds, and the surgeon—who is standing right there—immediately takes over to finish the procedure laparoscopically or openly.
Does robotic surgery cost more?
Yes, the technology is expensive. However, the total cost of care is often lower because the hospital stay is shorter, complication rates are lower, and the return to work is faster. At Liv Hospital, we offer transparent “package pricing” for international patients that includes the robotic surcharge.
Is the surgeon in the room?
Yes, always. The surgeon is seated at the console just a few meters from the operating table, communicating constantly with the anesthesiologist and the assistant surgeon who is standing by the patient’s side.
Am I a candidate for robotic surgery?
Most patients who are candidates for open or laparoscopic surgery can have robotic surgery. However, patients with extensive previous abdominal surgeries (lots of scar tissue) or severe heart/lung disease (who cannot tolerate the gas pressure) may need individual evaluation. Our team will review your medical history to confirm.
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