Robotic surgery may sound like a futuristic concept, but it is a growing technology that is becoming a more popular choice among patients and surgeons. Thanks to the 3D camera and maneuverable instruments, it is a particularly useful option when treating small, cramped, and sometimes difficult-to-access areas.
UNC Health Pardee began offering robotic surgery in July 2023, resulting in significantly less post-operative pain and faster recovery times for patients compared to open surgery.
Investment in robotics
By investing in robotic surgery, Pardee uses the latest technology to provide patients with the best possible surgical options. Dr. John Kogoy, a general surgeon at Pardee Surgical Associates, recently surpassed his 100th surgery performed using this new technology.
He credits the precision of the instruments, the extremely high-resolution cameras that magnify the surgical field up to 10x magnification levels, and the use of fluorescent dyes to easily identify critical critical structures and assess tissue perfusion. It is explained that this is a factor. You can make him work in a very elegant way.
“By operating with a robot, we can perform laparoscopic surgery in a way that feels more natural and similar to using your own hands. This is interesting because in this setting you are physically away from the patient. “Because it's more remote,” he said. Kogoi said.
first hand testimony
Barbara Gittleman was suffering from pain from an inguinal hernia and was rushed to the emergency room in excruciating pain. She realizes that hernia needs repair;
Barbara thought open surgery was her only option. She was nervous about the surgery because she had had very bad reactions to anesthesia in the past. Although she was hesitant, she was relieved when she learned that Dr. Kogoi could address her problem with robotic surgery.
“This was a most enjoyable experience. From the moment I arrived at the hospital to reception, everything was handled with professionalism, kindness, consideration and efficiency,” Barbara said. “When I got home, the next day I was up and walking around and ready to get in the car. I felt great.”
game changer
The robot initially started out as a platform primarily for prostate surgery and gynecological procedures, but as technology improves, surgeons now have access to all quadrants of the abdomen, allowing it to be used in general surgery. Its use has also become increasingly applicable in the field.
“This robot is a great equalizer in that it can manipulate people of all shapes and sizes with the same degree of freedom,” Dr. Kogoi said.
This robotic surgical system provides patients with a safer experience and higher quality care, reducing the risk of infection, contributing to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, and reducing the likelihood of readmission.
Regarding recovery, Dr. Kogoy explained that while results vary, there is generally some discomfort during the first few days and less than with other surgical approaches. He noted that many patients are able to manage their pain with ibuprofen or Tylenol.
“This works because the mechanical movement of the robotic arm causes less damage to the abdominal wall than traditional laparoscopic instruments, and the precision of the instruments inside the body causes less damage to the tissue being operated on, resulting in less blood loss. “Less pain,” he said.
Pardee is excited to offer robotic surgery as an option to eligible surgical patients. To learn more about this technology or to see if you are a candidate for robotic surgery, please visit pardeehospital.orghttps://pardeehospital.org.
