Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of surgery using a minimally invasive approach done through one or a few, small incisions. These incisions are often as small as a dime.

During a robotic-assisted procedure, the surgeon uses a device with a camera to control robotic arms that hold tiny surgical tools. The robotic arms can bend and turn in more ways than human hands. The camera provides large, 3D views of the operating area.

This means the surgeon can see more detail and has better control during surgery. The result is often better outcomes for you, including:

• Faster recovery
• Less time in the hospital
• Less pain and scarring
• Fewer complications
• Increased safety

Robotics-assisted surgery services and treatments

PeaceHealth offers many options in robotic-assisted technology. However, not everyone is a candidate for this type of surgery. Your doctor will talk with you about the option that’s right for you. We offer robotic-assisted surgery for many conditions.

• Cancer surgery – such as colorectal, head and neck, lung, liver, kidney, cervical, ovarian, esophageal, pancreatic and prostate cancer.
• General surgery – procedures for gastroesophageal reflux disease including GERD, hernia, gallbladder disease, liver disease and obesity.
• Gynecologic and urogynecologic surgery – including hysterectomy and procedures for uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse.
• Head and neck surgery – for conditions affecting the sinuses, thyroid and parathyroid, larynx (voice box) and tonsils.
• Orthopedic surgery – including knee replacement and hip replacement.
• Spine Surgery – spinal fusion techniques for neck and back conditions.
• Thoracic surgery – for conditions that affect the lungs, chest wall, thymus and esophagus.
• Urologic surgery – including prostate removal (prostatectomy), and procedures for urinary obstruction and kidney disease.

What to expect with robotic-assisted surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may have local anesthesia, where we apply numbing medication to the surgical area before the procedure. General anesthesia, where you go to sleep during the procedure is also an option.

Your surgeon will make one or more small incisions. A tiny camera on a flexible tube (called an endoscope) is then passed through one of the incisions. The endoscope lights up the area and sends a magnified, 3D image to the surgeon’s video screen.

Next, the surgeon uses robotic arms to insert surgical tools within the incisions. Watching the video screen, the surgeon guides every movement the robotic arms make.

Although many patients experience less pain during recovery, robotic surgery is still surgery. You may have pain or discomfort after the procedure. Generally, you may be able to go home sooner, recover faster and return to activities quicker.

Advanced robotic-assisted surgery services

PeaceHealth offers robotic-assisted surgery close to home including care in Washington, Oregon and Alaska.

The newest technology available

The robotic systems allow surgeons to perform many procedures, often with only one incision. These systems include:

• daVinci® Surgical System for most types of surgery
• Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology for orthopedic surgery
• Mazor Robotics technology for spine surgery
• Monarch® Bronchoscopy for lung cancer surgery

Robotic surgery options for many types of conditions are available at PeaceHealth locations throughout Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Learn more.