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Discover the definition and scope of Robotic Cardiac Surgery. Learn about the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System the role of the surgeon and the benefits of minimally invasive care.

Overview and Definition

What Is Robotic Cardiac Surgery?

Robotic Cardiac Surgery is a specialized field of medicine that utilizes advanced robotic systems to perform surgical procedures on the heart and surrounding major blood vessels. This innovative approach allows surgeons to execute complex procedures with greater precision flexibility and control than is possible with conventional open heart techniques.

The robotic system serves as a sophisticated tool that replicates the hand movements of the surgeon on a smaller scale inside the chest of the patient. It is widely used for treating various conditions affecting the heart valves coronary arteries and cardiac tissue. This field has revolutionized heart surgery by significantly reducing physical trauma to the patient which leads to faster recovery times and better clinical outcomes.

Scope and Advantages

The scope of robotic heart surgery primarily includes mitral valve repair coronary artery bypass grafting and the closure of atrial septal defects. It is also utilized for the removal of cardiac tumors. The primary advantages of this approach are significant. Patients experience much less trauma to the chest wall which results in reduced pain and a lower risk of infection.

Blood loss is minimized often eliminating the need for transfusions. Recovery time is drastically faster with most patients returning to normal daily activities within a few weeks compared to months for open surgery. Furthermore the cosmetic result is superior with scarring limited to small keyhole incisions rather than a large vertical scar down the center of the chest.

Purpose and Clinical Use

Indications for Surgery

Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Patients are typically referred for robotic cardiac surgery after experiencing symptoms indicative of structural heart disease or coronary artery blockages. Common signs include chest pain or angina shortness of breath particularly during exertion and profound fatigue.

Patients with mitral valve regurgitation often present with heart palpitations or fluid retention in the legs. Those with atrial septal defects may experience exercise intolerance or recurrent respiratory infections. Early recognition of these symptoms is vital as it allows for elective repair before permanent damage to the heart muscle occurs.

The robotic approach is particularly beneficial for patients who require valve repair rather than replacement as it preserves the natural architecture of the heart.

Evaluating Risk

While robotic surgery is highly effective it is not suitable for every patient. A thorough risk assessment is conducted to determine candidacy. Factors such as severe peripheral vascular disease or previous lung surgeries may contraindicate a robotic approach.

Obesity which can complicate open surgery is often well managed with the robotic platform due to its robust instrumentation. The surgeon evaluates the anatomy using advanced imaging to ensure the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery

System can be safely deployed. Patients with multi vessel coronary disease may still require traditional open surgery however for single or double vessel disease robotic totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass offers a less invasive alternative.

Evaluation Before Treatment

Precision Diagnostics

Accurate diagnosis and anatomical mapping are essential before any robotic intervention. The diagnostic pathway often begins with a Computed Tomography 256 Slice scan. This ultra fast scanner captures high resolution images of the coronary arteries and heart valves in a single heartbeat minimizing motion artifacts. It allows the surgeon to visualize calcifications and the exact geometry of the heart.

3 Tesla MR is utilized for detailed tissue characterization. It provides exceptional contrast for assessing the heart muscle scarring and valve function without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. These imaging modalities help the surgical team plan the placement of robotic ports and anticipate anatomical variations.

Functional Imaging

Beyond structure assessing the physiological function of the heart is critical. Spect CT and Scintigraphy are widely used to evaluate myocardial perfusion. These nuclear medicine tests help determine if the heart muscle is receiving enough blood flow under stress and if the tissue is viable for revascularization.

PET CT is indispensable in complex cases particularly for diagnosing infective endocarditis or identifying hibernating myocardium that would benefit from bypass surgery. These functional imaging tools provide a comprehensive map of the patient physiology guiding the surgeon in preserving as much healthy tissue as possible while effectively treating the disease.

Surgery and Recovery

Robotic Surgical Intervention

The surgical phase utilizes the full capabilities of the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System. For mitral valve repair the surgeon precisely reconstructs the valve leaflets and implants a support ring. During coronary bypass the internal mammary artery is harvested robotically and connected to the blocked coronary artery.

To ensure the highest level of safety Intraoperative Neuromonitoring may be employed particularly in complex cases or patients with high risk of stroke to monitor brain function in real time. Advanced centers like Liv Hospital integrate these technologies to ensure that the patient receives the standard of care comparable to open surgery but with the benefits of a minimally invasive approach.

Advanced Non-Invasive Options

For patients who are not candidates for surgery due to high risk or who have refractory conditions cutting edge non invasive technologies are available. Versa HD Hexapod is a state of the art radiotherapy system that can be used for stereotactic body radiation therapy. This is an emerging treatment for refractory ventricular tachycardia where high doses of radiation are delivered to the area of the heart causing the arrhythmia.

The Hexapod table offers six degrees of freedom to correct patient positioning with sub millimeter accuracy ensuring the radiation hits the target while sparing healthy heart tissue. This integration of cardiac surgery and radiosurgery represents the frontier of heart care.

Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Follow-up and Support

Post-Surgical Recovery

Recovery after robotic cardiac surgery is generally rapid. Patients are typically extubated in the operating room or shortly after arriving in the intensive care unit. Mobilization begins the day after surgery to prevent complications like pneumonia and blood clots. Pain management is optimized to allow for deep breathing.

Most patients are discharged from the hospital within three to four days significantly shorter than the week long stay typical for open heart surgery. Rehabilitation focuses on cardiac conditioning including supervised exercise and lifestyle education to improve cardiovascular health.

Cardiac Surveillance

Long term care involves regular follow up with a cardiologist to monitor the durability of the repair. Echocardiography is the primary tool for surveillance but Computed Tomography 256 Slice or 3 Tesla MR may be used for more detailed assessment if needed. Patients are advised to adopt a heart healthy diet and manage risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Support groups for heart surgery patients provide emotional backing during the recovery process. The goal of robotic cardiac surgery is to restore normal life expectancy and quality of life allowing patients to return to their families and careers without the physical and psychological burden of a major sternotomy.

Purpose and Clinical Use

Purpose Of Robotic Systems In Cardiac Surgery

The core purpose of using robotic systems in cardiac surgery is to perform complex heart operations through small incisions without compromising on the quality of the result. The chest cavity contains vital organs packed closely together including the heart lungs and major blood vessels. Navigating this space requires immense care to avoid damaging healthy structures.

The robotic system allows surgeons to reach deep areas such as the back of the heart or the mitral valve with ease. The purpose extends beyond just repairing the heart it aims to preserve the integrity of the chest wall and reduce the physiological impact of surgery which directly impacts the quality of life of a patient.

Clinical Use Of Robotic Mitral Valve Repair

Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Robotic mitral valve repair is one of the most common robotic procedures performed in cardiac medicine today. The mitral valve controls blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle. When it leaks it can cause heart failure.

The goal is to repair the valve leaflets and ring to restore normal function. The high magnification of the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System allows the surgeon to visualize the complex anatomy of the valve and perform precise suturing to tighten it. This approach avoids the need for a large sternotomy incision offering patients a durable repair with a quicker recovery.

Robotic Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Robotic coronary artery bypass grafting or CABG is used to treat blocked coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle. In this procedure the surgeon uses the robot to harvest an artery from the chest wall typically the internal mammary artery. This artery is then sewn onto the coronary artery beyond the blockage to restore blood flow.

The robotic system allows for precise dissection of the graft vessel without large incisions. In some cases the entire bypass can be performed robotically or it may be combined with stent placement in a hybrid approach. This minimally invasive option reduces pain and scarring significantly.

Treating Atrial Septal Defects

An atrial septal defect is a hole in the wall between the two upper chambers of the heart. While many can be closed with a catheter some require surgical repair. Robotic surgery provides an excellent option for closing these defects. The surgeon can suture a patch over the hole or stitch it closed directly through small ports between the ribs.

The Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System provides the dexterity needed to place sutures accurately inside the beating or arrested heart. This approach avoids the long scar associated with open heart surgery and is particularly cosmetically appealing for younger patients.

Robotic Tricuspid Valve Repair

The tricuspid valve located between the right atrium and right ventricle can also become leaky or narrowed. Robotic repair of the tricuspid valve follows similar principles to mitral valve repair. The surgeon uses the robot to place an annuloplasty ring or repair the leaflets to stop the leak. Because the tricuspid valve is located anteriorly in the chest it is well suited for the robotic approach. Correcting tricuspid valve issues robotically prevents the progression of right sided heart failure while minimizing the trauma of access.

Removal Of Cardiac Tumors

Benign heart tumors such as myxomas most commonly occur in the left atrium. These tumors can obstruct blood flow or cause strokes if pieces break off. Robotic surgery is an ideal method for removing these masses. The high definition 3D vision allows the surgeon to identify the attachment point of the tumor clearly. The robotic instruments can then be used to excise the tumor completely and repair the wall of the heart. This minimally invasive removal facilitates a rapid return to normal activities for the patient.

Treatment For Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a common irregular heart rhythm that increases the risk of stroke. Robotic surgery can be used to perform an ablation procedure known as the Maze procedure. The surgeon uses the robot to create scar lines on the heart tissue using energy sources like radiofrequency or cryothermy.

These scar lines block the abnormal electrical signals causing the arrhythmia. This can be done as a standalone procedure or in combination with valve surgery. The Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System allows for precise application of the ablation lines on the surface of the heart.

Who Is A Candidate For Surgery?

Most patients who are eligible for open heart surgery can also undergo robotic surgery. However the specific anatomy and disease characteristics play a role in the decision. Patients with severe peripheral vascular disease or previous lung surgeries may have limitations that make the procedure more difficult.

The surgeon evaluates each case individually. For robotic mitral valve repair the specific pathology of the valve determines if a repair is possible. For robotic bypass the location of the blockages guides the approach. A thorough evaluation ensures the right patient receives the right surgery.

Advantages Over Sternotomy

The traditional approach to heart surgery involves splitting the breastbone or sternotomy which requires a lengthy healing period for the bone to knit back together. Robotic surgery avoids this bone cutting entirely. By entering between the ribs the structural integrity of the chest is maintained.

This leads to less pain with breathing and movement after surgery. Patients can lift objects and drive sooner than those who have had a sternotomy. The risk of deep sternal wound infection is also eliminated which is a significant safety advantage.

The Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System In Clinical Practice

The integration of the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System into clinical practice has standardized many complex cardiac procedures. It allows for reproducible results in valve repair and bypass surgery. The system includes features like tremor filtration and motion scaling which enhance the natural skills of the surgeon.

The ability to practice procedures on a simulator also helps surgeons maintain their skills. This technology has made it possible to offer minimally invasive options to a broader range of patients including those who are older or frail and might benefit most from a less traumatic surgery.

Evaluation Before Treatment

Initial Consultation And History

The evaluation process begins with a detailed consultation with the thoracic surgeon. The doctor will review the complete medical history of the patient including smoking history occupational exposures and previous surgeries.

For lung issues they track symptoms like cough shortness of breath or coughing up blood. For esophageal issues they assess difficulty swallowing or weight loss. This initial step establishes the need for surgery and identifies any potential risks. The doctor will explain why robotic surgery is the recommended course of action based on this history and perform a physical examination.

Advanced Imaging With Computed Tomography 256 Slice

Robotic Thoracic Surgery

The Computed Tomography 256 Slice scanner is an ultra fast CT machine that captures detailed cross sectional images of the chest. In thoracic surgery it is used to visualize lung nodules tumors and the complex vascular anatomy surrounding the lungs and heart.

The speed of the scan reduces motion artifacts from breathing providing crystal clear images of the airways and blood vessels. This roadmap is vital for the surgeon to plan Robotic Lung Surgery allowing them to identify key vessels safely and plan the precise resection of the tumor during the robotic procedure.

Metabolic Imaging With PET CT

PET CT combines positron emission tomography with computed tomography to provide metabolic and anatomic information. It uses a radioactive sugar tracer to light up areas of high metabolic activity which are often cancer cells. This scan is highly sensitive for detecting lymph node metastases in lung and esophageal cancer.

A positive PET CT might change the treatment plan from surgery alone to chemotherapy or radiation first. It is a critical tool for accurate staging and treatment planning ensuring that surgery is the right step for the patient.

Functional Imaging With Spect CT

Spect CT or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography combined with CT provides functional information about the organs. It is particularly useful for evaluating lung function before surgery. By showing which parts of the lung are contributing most to breathing it helps the surgeon predict how well the patient will breathe after a portion of the lung is removed. If a patient has poor lung function removing a large section via Robotic Lung Surgery might be risky so this test helps define the safe limits of resection.

The Role Of Scintigraphy In Evaluation

Scintigraphy also known as a V/Q scan is a nuclear medicine test used to evaluate air flow and blood flow in the lungs. It is a standard test for patients with borderline lung function who are being considered for lung resection. A radioactive tracer is inhaled and injected to map the function of each lung lobe. This quantitative data allows the surgeon to calculate the predicted post operative lung function. This test ensures that the surgery is performed on patients who will have sufficient lung capacity to live comfortably afterwards.

Bronchoscopy And EBUS

Before proceeding with Robotic Lung Surgery it is often necessary to look inside the airways. Bronchoscopy involves passing a flexible camera down the throat into the lungs to visualize the tumor. Endobronchial Ultrasound or EBUS uses a special scope to see through the airway walls and sample lymph nodes in the center of the chest. This biopsy confirms the diagnosis and checks for spread to the lymph nodes. Knowing the exact status of the lymph nodes is crucial for determining the stage of the cancer and the extent of surgery required.

Pulmonary Function Testing

Before undergoing thoracic surgery patients must undergo a comprehensive evaluation of their breathing capacity. Pulmonary Function Tests or PFTs measure how much air the lungs can hold and how quickly air can be moved in and out. These tests also measure how well oxygen moves from the lungs into the blood. The results help the surgeon and anesthesiologist determine if the patient can tolerate the loss of lung tissue and the stress of single lung ventilation during the robotic surgery.

Robotic Thoracic Surgery

Cardiac Stress Testing

Robotic thoracic surgery places specific demands on the heart. During the procedure one lung is deflated to create space for the robot to work which increases the workload on the heart. Therefore a cardiac stress test is often performed. This helps identify any underlying heart conditions that might cause complications during surgery. An echocardiogram may also be done to check heart valve function and pressure in the lung arteries. Ensuring the heart is strong enough is a critical safety step.

Blood Work And Anesthesia Assessment

Routine blood tests are conducted to check for anemia kidney function and clotting ability. Anemia is common in cancer patients so correcting hemoglobin levels before surgery is important. An anesthesiologist will review the airway and allergy history of the patient. Medications such as blood thinners must be stopped in advance to minimize bleeding risk. This comprehensive assessment ensures maximum safety during the operation and smooth recovery from anesthesia.

Pre-Operative Instructions

In the days leading up to the surgery patients receive specific instructions. This may include breathing exercises to strengthen the lungs and smoking cessation which is mandatory to reduce the risk of pneumonia. Patients will be told to stop eating and drinking after midnight the night before the surgery. Following these rules is critical to prevent aspiration during anesthesia and to avoid cancellation of the surgery.

Surgery and Recovery

Arrival And Preparation

On the day of surgery the patient arrives at the hospital admission unit. Nursing staff verify the identity of the patient and the scheduled procedure. An IV line is placed to deliver fluids and medications. The surgeon and anesthesiologist visit to answer final questions and mark the surgical site. This preparation phase is calm and structured to ensure all safety protocols are met before entering the operating room. The patient is then taken to the surgical suite where the team is ready.

Anesthesia And Positioning

Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Once in the operating suite the patient is given general anesthesia to induce deep sleep. A breathing tube is placed to control respiration. For some robotic procedures a special tube is used to deflate one lung creating space in the chest.

The surgical team then carefully positions the patient usually with the right side of the chest elevated. Proper padding is used to protect pressure points. The space between the ribs provides access for the robotic instruments without spreading the bones.

The Role Of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring

Robotic Cardiac Surgery

During complex cardiac surgeries Intraoperative Neuromonitoring may be used to protect the brain and spinal cord. This technology allows the team to monitor the electrical activity of the nervous system in real time.

Electrodes are placed on the head and body to detect signals ensuring that blood flow to the brain is adequate throughout the procedure. This adds an extra layer of safety preserving neurological function and reducing the risk of stroke or other complications during heart surgery.

Port Placement And Docking

The surgeon makes several small incisions or ports between the ribs usually eight to twelve millimeters wide. The robotic camera and instrument arms are inserted through these ports. The Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System cart is then driven up to the operating table and docked or attached to these ports. The surgeon then scrubs out and sits at the control console while a surgical assistant stands by the patient to change instruments and assist with suction or clip application.

Performing The Surgery With Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System

The surgeon performs the operation by manipulating the master controls at the console. The Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System translates these movements into precise actions inside the heart. For valve repair the surgeon cuts out diseased tissue and sutures the valve ring in place. For bypass they sew the graft vessel to the coronary artery. The 3D high definition vision allows for identification of vital structures. Small blood vessels are sealed instantly to prevent bleeding. The precision is unmatched by human hands alone.

Cardiopulmonary Bypass Management

For many robotic heart surgeries the heart must be stopped to allow for precise suturing. A heart lung machine takes over the job of pumping blood and oxygenating it. This is connected via tubes placed through small incisions in the groin vessels rather than the large chest opening. This technique is called peripheral cannulation. The perfusionist manages the machine while the surgeon operates. Once the repair is complete the heart is restarted and the machine is disconnected.

Specimen Removal And Closure

If any tissue such as a tumor or part of a valve needs to be removed it is placed inside a retrieval bag within the chest and pulled out through one of the port sites. The robotic arms are undocked and drainage tubes are placed to remove fluid and air from around the heart. The small incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures or surgical glue. The anesthesia team then wakes the patient up and ensures they are stable before transport.

The Recovery Room Experience

The patient is transferred to the Intensive Care Unit or ICU. Here specialized nurses monitor vital signs oxygen levels and heart rhythm continuously. It is normal to feel groggy. Pain is managed with IV medication and often a nerve block placed during surgery to numb the chest wall. Most patients spend about twenty four hours in the ICU before moving to a regular hospital room or step down unit depending on their progress.

Pain Management And Mobilization

Pain after robotic surgery is generally manageable and significantly less than open surgery because the breastbone remains intact. Most patients utilize a multimodal pain control strategy including oral medications. The nursing team encourages early mobilization. Patients are helped to sit in a chair and walk in the hallway often on the day after surgery. Walking is crucial to expand the lungs prevent pneumonia and speed up the return of bowel function.

Discharge From Hospital

The hospital stay for robotic surgery is short relative to open heart surgery. Most patients go home within three to five days. Discharge criteria include controlled pain ability to walk normal vital signs and stable heart rhythm. Patients receive a discharge summary with instructions on wound care breathing exercises and when to call the doctor. The quicker return to home allows patients to recover in a comfortable environment.

Follow-up and Support

Pathology Results Review

One of the first and most important steps in follow up is reviewing the pathology report. The tissue removed during surgery is examined under a microscope by a pathologist. They determine the final stage and type of the cancer. The surgeon explains these findings to the patient usually within a week of surgery to determine if any further treatment like chemotherapy radiation or observation is needed. This report confirms whether the surgery was curative or if additional steps are required.

Monitoring With Advanced Technology

Long term monitoring is essential for cancer survivors. This involves regular chest X rays and CT scans to check the lungs. Advanced imaging tools such as PET CT continue to play a role in surveillance.

These sensitive scans can detect very small recurrences early allowing for prompt intervention. The schedule for these tests will be personalized based on the risk profile of the patient and the type of cancer treated.

The Role Of MR Linac In Follow Up

If cancer recurs or if post operative radiation is needed the MR Linac offers a cutting edge solution. This machine combines an MRI scanner with a linear accelerator. It allows doctors to see the tumor in real time while delivering radiation.

If the tumor moves due to breathing which is common in the lungs the MR Linac adjusts the beam instantly. This precision is valuable for treating recurrent lung nodules sparing healthy lung tissue and the heart from radiation damage.

Understanding Single Dose Radiotherapy

For certain localized recurrences or small metastases Single Dose Radiotherapy also known as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) might be an option. This advanced technique delivers a high dose of radiation in a single session or very few sessions. It is highly convenient for patients and effective at ablating small lung tumors. This approach minimizes the disruption to the life of the patient compared to weeks of daily radiation treatments and is often used for oligometastatic disease.

Precision Treatment With Versa HD Hexapod

The Versa HD Hexapod is another advanced radiotherapy system used for follow up treatment. It features a robotic couch that can move in six different directions to position the patient with sub millimeter accuracy. This ensures that the radiation beam hits the target precisely. It is used for treating complex tumors that are difficult to reach or are located near critical organs like the spinal cord. This technology enhances the safety and effectiveness of post operative radiation therapy.

Recovering Respiratory Function

Recovery of full breathing capacity after Robotic Lung Surgery takes time. Patients are advised to continue using their incentive spirometer a device that encourages deep breathing to keep the lungs expanded. Daily walking is the best exercise to rebuild stamina. Most patients find their shortness of breath improves steadily over the first few weeks as the remaining lung tissue expands and compensates. Open communication with the surgeon helps manage expectations regarding physical activity levels.

Robotic Thoracic Surgery

Nutritional Support And Recovery

For patients undergoing Robotic Esophageal Surgery nutrition is a key focus of recovery. The digestive system needs time to adapt to the changes. Dietitians work with patients to transition from liquids to soft foods and eventually a regular diet. Eating small frequent meals helps prevent fullness and reflux. Maintaining a healthy weight and protein intake supports tissue healing and energy levels during the recovery phase.

Mental Health And Emotional Support

Recovering from major surgery and a cancer diagnosis affects mental health. Anxiety about scan results or shortness of breath is normal. Support is an integral part of the care plan. Patients are encouraged to connect with support groups where they can talk to others who have walked the same path. Professional counseling is also available to help process the emotional journey of survivorship. Mental well being is a key part of physical healing.

Long-Term Health Maintenance

Regular follow up visits are crucial for maintaining long term health. These visits allow the doctor to monitor for late complications and ensure that cancer screenings are up to date. They also provide an opportunity to discuss general health including smoking cessation maintenance and vaccinations. The goal of follow up is not just surveillance but ensuring the patient maintains a high quality of life for years to come.

Why Choose Liv Hospital Robotic Program?

Choosing a center with a dedicated robotic thoracic program ensures access to the latest technology and experienced surgeons. The combination of the Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System with advanced perioperative care leads to superior outcomes. The multidisciplinary team including oncologists radiologists and pulmonologists collaborates on every case. This comprehensive approach provides personalized care plans that address the unique needs of each patient ensuring the best possible journey from diagnosis to recovery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does the robot operate on its own?

No the robot is entirely controlled by the surgeon and cannot make any movements or decisions independently at any time during the surgery.

Yes it is considered safe and effective for many cardiac procedures offering reduced risks of infection and blood loss compared to open surgery.

The main advantages are the 3D high definition vision and the precision of the wristed instruments that exceed human dexterity inside the chest.

No the incisions are very small usually about one to two centimeters in length which minimizes scarring and post operative pain.

The robotic system has been used in cardiac surgery since the early 2000s and has been performed on thousands of patients worldwide.

What is the most common robotic cardiac surgery?

Robotic mitral valve repair is the most widely performed robotic procedure in cardiac surgery due to its high success rate and benefits.

It effectively repairs structural defects like valve leaks or blocked arteries which can restore normal heart function and life expectancy.

Yes it significantly reduces trauma to the chest wall compared to open surgery and lowers the risk of wound infections.

Yes it is frequently used for benign conditions like atrial septal defect closure and removal of benign cardiac tumors.

The wristed instruments allow for precise complex suturing of the valve leaflets and ring which is technically difficult with standard tools.

Why is a CT 256 Slice better than a standard CT?

The CT 256 Slice is faster and captures more detail reducing blur from breathing which is essential for accurate lung mapping.

It is performed under sedation so the patient is usually asleep or very relaxed and does not feel pain or remember the procedure.

Yes it involves a small amount of radiation from the tracer and the CT scan but the diagnostic value for cancer staging usually outweighs the risk.

We need to ensure you will have enough breathing capacity left after a portion of your lung is removed to live an active life.

The evaluation process including all scans and clearances typically takes two to three weeks to ensure comprehensive planning for surgery.

Will I be in a lot of pain?

Pain is generally moderate and well controlled with medication it is significantly less than open surgery because the sternum is not cut.

You will be encouraged to walk the morning after surgery to help your circulation and lungs recover.

For most robotic heart surgeries they are removed within twenty four to forty eight hours once drainage decreases.

It helps the team monitor brain function during surgery to ensure safety and prevent neurological complications.

The scars are very small typically one to two centimeters each located on the side of the chest and fade well over time.

What is the MR Linac used for?

It is used for precise radiation therapy allowing doctors to see and treat moving lung tumors in real time adapting to breathing.

Yes it is highly effective for small localized lung tumors delivering a potent dose to destroy cancer cells quickly with minimal sessions.

It adjusts the position of the patient with extreme accuracy ensuring radiation is delivered exactly where it is needed avoiding the heart and healthy lung.

Follow up is usually for five years or more for cancer patients though the frequency of visits decreases significantly over time.

Deep breathing helps re expand the lung prevent fluid buildup and pneumonia and speeds up the return of your stamina.

No the robot is entirely controlled by the surgeon and cannot make any movements or decisions independently at any time during the surgery.

Yes it is considered safe and effective for many cardiac procedures offering reduced risks of infection and blood loss compared to open surgery.

The main advantages are the 3D high definition vision and the precision of the wristed instruments that exceed human dexterity inside the chest.

No the incisions are very small usually about one to two centimeters in length which minimizes scarring and post operative pain.

The robotic system has been used in cardiac surgery since the early 2000s and has been performed on thousands of patients worldwide.