da VINCI ROBOTIC SURGERY
The da Vinci Surgical System (introduced in 2000) consists of a remote console (not shown) where the surgeon has a 3-dimensional view, with high magnification, of the operative field and can control the robotic arms (shown above), which hold instruments inside the abdominal cavity. The da Vinci robot enhances the minimally-invasive approach of the Laparoscope to improve the Roux-Y gastric bypass procedure, one of the more challenging technical procedures being performed laparoscopically. The robotic system allows the surgeon’s hand movements to be translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. Benefits of the da Vinci robotic system compared to the pure Laparoscopic approach include:
*3-dimensional magnified view of the operative field (not 2-D)
*Instruments with 2 additional degrees of freedom
*Improved surgical maneuverability and ergonomics
*More precise suturing capability due to better
visualization, considerably improved range-of-
motion of instruments, elimination of torque due to a
thick abdominal wall, and elimination of tremor of
hand of surgeon
*Alleviation of fatigue of surgeon by allowing seated
position and eliminating torque
Dr. von Rueden has performed 30 Roux-Y gastric bypass procedures using the Da Vinci robot, a minimally-invasive procedure combining the laparoscopic (tiny incision) approach with the use of robotic arms. The robotic surgery enhances the laparoscopic procedure by providing a 3-D view, as opposed to the usual 2-D view, allowing for better visualization of surgeon’s hand movements to be translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. Anatomical connections, or anastomoses (like plumbing connections), are made more precisely.
Dr. von Rueden is currently performing the gastric bypass procedures using the Da Vinci robot at St. Joseph Medical Center. Patients enrolled in our program interested in the robotic gastric bypass will have their surgery performed at St. Joseph Medical Center instead of St. Agnes.
Seminars are held at St. Joseph Hospital. Please contact
410-337-1479 or sign up online.