Using the robotic surgical system, the surgeon operates while seated comfortably at a console viewing a 3D image of the surgical field. The surgeon's fingers grasp the master controls below the display, with hands and wrists naturally positioned relative to his or her eyes. The system seamlessly translates the surgeon's hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient.
Many surgical procedures performed today using standard laparoscopic technique may be performed more quickly and easily using the robotic surgical system.
Total Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass (TECAB)
TECAB is the least invasive coronary artery bypass grafting operation, in which the bypass graft is constructed via tiny portholes, whereas conventional coronary artery bypass surgery requires division of the sternal bone of the chest in order for the surgeon to gain access to perform the surgery. Utilizing the da Vinci® robotic system, the surgeon performs complex surgical maneuvers inside the patient’s chest through five very small, half-inch incisions. As a result, the surgical trauma and scarring for the patient is minimal and the recovery time, greatly reduced.
Robotic-assisted Gynecologic Surgery
Gynecologic surgeries that can be performed robotically at Akron General include, but are not limited to:
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Hysterectomy
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Myomectomy
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Fibroid removal
Robotic-assisted Urologic Surgery
Urologic surgeries that can be performed robotically at Akron General include, but are not limited to:
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Prostatectomy
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Nephrectomy
One of the most innovative forms of treatment is robotic prostatectomy. In fact, a recent article in the journal Urology concluded that in the hands of surgeons experienced in robotic assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and radical retropubic prostatectomy, there was a statistically significant lower positive cancer margin rate for patients undergoing robotic assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. In time, additional procedures may be performed using this innovative approach.
Potential Benefits of Robotic Surgery
Benefits of robotic surgery for patients may include:
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Less trauma
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Less postoperative pain and discomfort
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Less need for transfusions, decreased risk of infection
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Shorter hospital stay and less scarring
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Faster recovery and return to normal daily activities
Not all surgeries are appropriate for robotic surgery. Talk to your doctor or surgeon to see if surgery using the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System is right for you.
Through the dedication of our surgeons and our surgery program, Akron General has been designated as Robotic Surgery Epicenter for Gynecology, where others come to learn about best practices for robotic procedures. This achievement was earned by being recognized nationally for exceptional quality and outcomes, and the effort is being led by Ross Marchetta, MD, Director of Robotic Gynecologic Surgery at Akron General.
Physicians at Akron General Credentialed in Robotic Surgery at Akron General:
Stephen Andrews, MD
Gynecologic Oncology
David E. Biats, DO
OB/GYN
Todd F. Breaux, MD
Urology
Brian T. Canterbury, MD
Urology
George L. Drake, DO
OB/GYN
Edward M. Ferris, MD
OB/GYN
Ahmad K. Jadallah, MD
OB/GYN
Eric L. Jenison, MD
Gynecologic Oncology, OB/GYN
Nathaniel S. Laden, MD
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Ross F. Marchetta, MD
OB/GYN
Thomas J. Mendise, MD
OB/GYN
Susan M. Shondel, MD
OB/GYN
David S. Turk, MD
Urology
John D. Wegryn, MD
Urology
