Getting to Know the Pros and Cons of da Vinci Surgical Robot

Nowadays, both surgeons and patients found new hope and promise in robotic surgery. The most popular robotic apparatus used in operating rooms mostly in the United States is the da Vinci surgical robot system, manufactured by Intuitive Surgical, according to online sources. It is a million-dollar, multi-armed robot system consists of a 3-D enhanced visualization and wristed surgical instruments which is controlled by a trained doctor sitting at a console a few feet away from the operating table. However, there is no clear evidence that the use of surgical robots is better than standard surgeries. This article will address some of the pros and cons of using da Vinci surgical robot.
Pros:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Robotic surgery makes a smaller incision, compared to traditional surgery, during surgery. Small incision means less scarring while allowing the same degree of access. 
• Enhanced Vision: The 3-D imaging system allows the surgeon to view tiny blood vessels, dissect precisely and clearly to help the surgeon to have a better procedural decision-making.
• Control and Precision: Eliminates normal hand tremor and the robotic arm that holds the surgical instruments has the capability to move at a 360 degree level of manipulation that goes beyond the limit of a human hand.
• Reduced Bleeding: Because robotic surgery only makes a small incision, there is only less blood loss during surgery.
• Shorter hospital stay after surgery.

Cons:

• Robotic surgery cost more than traditional surgery. A robotic hysterectomy costs an average of $8,868 compared to regular laparoscopic surgery which only costs $6679. 
• Training surgeons is another issue of robotic surgery. If surgeons are not well-trained to operate the machine, patients may not be safe during operation. 
• Lack of tactile sensation: The surgeon's sensory ability is lost during robotic surgery. 
• Instruments failing: Instruments for robotic surgery appear to be less durable than conventional surgical instruments or laparoscopic instruments. 

Patients should talk to their doctors about their surgical experience and decide if da Vinci is right for them. For a more complete information on surgical risks, safety and indications for use, please refer to the page on da Vinci lawsuit at davincilawsuit.us.