Robotic technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand, introducing precise, versatile instrument movement combined with three-dimensional visualization of the operative site. Crittenton Hospital Medical Center is leading the way here in Michigan when it comes to robotic tools.
Crittenton has more than 20 surgeons on staff trained in robotic surgery in a number of fields including general surgery, gynecologic surgery, urology, and gynecologic oncology. As one of only a few epicenters in the United States, Crittenton attracts surgeons from around the globe. Crittenton uses the The da Vinci® Surgical System which provides patients with a minimally invasive treatment option for a range of complex conditions.
There are many different types of minimally invasive gynecological procedures that can treat a range of conditions, from cysts to heavy menstrual bleeding. Examples include:
- Hysterectomy, either total or partial
- Treatments for urinary incontinence (leaking urine)
- Uterine fibroid removal (myomectomy)
- Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain treatments
- Tubal ligation (permanent birth control)
- Treatments for ectopic pregnancies
Many minimally invasive procedures are performed with a laparoscope—a fiber-optic scope fitted with a small camera—placed inside the abdomen through a tiny cut. The laparoscope allows the surgeon to see inside the body on a computer screen.
“Sometimes the surgeon uses a robot for even more precise control during the procedure,” says Dr. Duff. The surgeon sits at a special computer console and guides robotic arms that execute the procedure with tiny surgical tools.
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery
- Less blood loss
- Minimal scarring and improved cosmetic healing
- Lower risk of infection
- Reduced pain following surgery
- Smaller incisions
