Da Vinci for Minimally Invasive Surgery

What Is da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Da Vinci is a computer-assisted surgical system that trained surgeons may use for certain minimally invasive procedures. During surgery, the surgeon controls the system from a console in the operating room and directs the movement of the camera and surgical instruments.

Da Vinci is a surgical tool. It does not make decisions or treat a health condition on its own. Your surgeon’s evaluation guides whether da Vinci is appropriate and how it is used during surgery.

Potential Benefits of da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery

For some patients, a minimally invasive approach may offer:

• Smaller incisions. Surgery may be performed through several small incisions rather than one larger open incision.
• Less pain and blood loss. For certain procedures, minimally invasive surgery may involve less pain and blood loss than open surgery.
• A shorter hospital stay or recovery. Some patients may return home sooner or resume daily activities earlier than they might after open surgery.
• Surgeon-controlled vision and instrument movement. The system can provide the surgeon with a detailed view of the surgical area and allow for controlled movement of small instruments during the operation.

How da Vinci May Be Used

At Valley Baptist Health System, da Vinci-assisted robotic surgery may be used for certain procedures in several specialties. The approach available for your care depends on the procedure, your surgeon’s evaluation and the technology available at the hospital or surgical center where you receive care.

• Gynecology – May include procedures such as hysterectomy, treatment for endometriosis or pelvic organ prolapse repair.
• General surgery – May be an option for certain procedures involving the abdomen or digestive system.
• Colorectal surgery – May be used for some procedures involving the colon or rectum.
• Urology – May be an option for certain urologic procedures.
• Bariatric surgery – May be considered for selected weight-loss procedures.

Who May Be a Candidate for Da Vinci Surgery?

Da Vinci surgery may be considered for adults who need certain procedures. It may not be appropriate for every patient or every surgery. Your surgeon may consider:

• Your condition and whether surgery is needed
• The procedure being considered and whether a minimally invasive approach may be appropriate
• Your overall health, prior surgeries and other factors that may affect care
• Other nonsurgical and surgical treatment options and their potential risks
• Your surgeon’s evaluation and training for the planned procedure

Risks and Considerations

Like any surgery, da Vinci surgery involves potential risks and may not be the right approach for everyone. Risks may vary based on the procedure, your health and the reason for surgery. In some cases, your surgeon may need to use another technique or make a larger incision. Your care team will explain the potential benefits and risks of your options and what may affect your recovery.

What to Expect

Your experience will depend on your condition, the procedure and your care plan. Before surgery, your Valley Baptist care team will explain the preparation, operation and recovery process, answer your questions and provide instructions for your needs.

Consultation and Evaluation

Your surgeon will review your diagnosis, treatment goals and available options. You can discuss whether surgery is needed, whether a minimally invasive approach may be appropriate and the potential benefits and risks of each option.

Surgical Planning

Your surgeon will plan your procedure based on your condition and health needs. Follow your care team’s instructions about medicines, eating and drinking before surgery, testing and transportation arrangements.

Procedure Day

On the day of your procedure, you will meet with your surgeon and care team before entering the operating room. During a da Vinci procedure, your surgeon remains in control of the system and performs the operation. Your team will guide you through what to expect that day.

Recovery and Follow-up

Recovery varies from person to person. It may depend on your procedure, your health and whether a minimally invasive or open approach is used. Your care team will provide instructions about activity, pain management, incision care and follow-up visits.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Care at Valley Baptist Health System

Valley Baptist provides inpatient, outpatient and surgical care for patients across the Rio Grande Valley. At Valley Baptist Health System, the robotic surgery program includes gynecology, general surgery, colorectal surgery, bariatric surgery and urology. The hospital has offered da Vinci-assisted robotic surgery since 2012.

Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville is recognized by the Surgical Review Corporation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery and a Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology.

Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen also offers minimally invasive robotic spine surgery using separate robotic-navigation technology. Your surgeon can help you understand the treatment approaches and care locations that may be available for your needs.