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Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a less invasive option. Using the da Vinci® Surgical System, the surgeon makes five to six keyhole incisions, measuring less than half an inch, around the lower abdomen. The robotic arms of the da Vinci® system operate within these ports, with the surgeon in full control of their actions throughout the procedure - the system cannot be programmed nor can it make decisions on its own. Additionally, there are sensors on the machine that ensure the robotic arms move only when the surgeon's eyes are viewing the console display.
The benefits extended to the surgeon during robotic-assisted prostatectomy are directly related to many potential patient benefits, including:
The following table provides an overview of the differences in benefits for patients and surgeons between the robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy and more traditional approaches.
OPEN RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY | LAPROSCOPIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY | ROBOTIC-ASSISTED RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY | |
---|---|---|---|
OPERATING TIME | 2.5 to 3.5 hours | 3.5 to 6 hours | 2 to 3 hours |
AVERAGE LENGTH OF HOSPITAL STAY | 2 to 4 days | 1.5 to 2.5 days | 1.5 to 2.5 days |
TOTAL INCISION LENGTH | 8 to 10 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches |
ESTIMATED BLOOD LOSS | 375 cc | 400 cc | less than 100 cc |
RETURN TO CONTINENCE | 90% | 89% | 94% |
VISUALIZATION | 3-D | 2-D | 3-D |
MAGNIFICATION OF VISUALIZATION | Up to three times | Up to six times | 10 times |
As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is both patient-specific and procedure-specific. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.