An alternative to the traditional surgical approach for hysterectomies, sacrocolpopexy and prostatectomies, the da Vinci¬S Surgical System integrates 3D HD laparoscopy and state-of-the-art robotic technology to virtually extend the surgeon's eyes and hands into the surgical field. The system is designed to enable new, minimally invasive options for complex surgical procedures. HD projection provides twice the effective viewing resolution and 20 percent more viewing area compared to da Vinci's standard 3D vision system. The unparalleled HD image improves clarity and detail of tissue and anatomy, which is crucial for complex dissection and reconstructive procedures.
Hysterectomies
In the United States, surgeons perform 600,000 hysterectomies each year. Of those performed, 65 percent are total abdominal hysterectomies, 10 percent are laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomies (LAVH) and 25 percent are vaginal hysterectomies. Despite general preference for minimally invasive procedures, the majority of these surgeries are still performed using large incisions. [learn more]
Sacrocolpopexy
120,000+ cases of uterine and vaginal vault prolapse are surgically treated each year in the United States. Prolapse (or falling) of any pelvic floor organ (vagina, uterus, bladder or rectum) occurs when the connective tissues or muscles within the body cavity are weak and unable to hold the pelvis in its natural orientation. The weakening of connective tissues accelerates with age, after child birth, with weight gain and strenuous physical labor. [learn more]
Prostatectomies
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America, affecting 1 in 6 men. In fact, 1 in 10,000 men under age 40 will be diagnosed this year, the rate shoots up to 1 in 39 for ages 40 to 59, and 1 in 14 for ages 60 to 69. However, promising new treatment options have been developed to help combat this threatening disease. [learn more]
How does the da Vinci work?
The da Vinci System enhances surgical capabilities by enabling the performance of complex surgeries through tiny surgical openings. The surgeon sits in an ergonomic console just a few feet from the patient and views the surgical site through the HD 3D viewer. The robot sits above the patient. It has several mechanical arms that hold a camera as well as surgical instruments. The surgeon uses hand controls and foot pedals to manipulate the robotic arms.
The surgeon's fingers grasp the master controls below the display, with hands and wrists naturally positioned relative to his or her eyes. The system seamlessly translates the surgeon's hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient.
How does this benefit patients?
By enhancing surgical capabilities, the da Vinci Surgical System helps to improve clinical outcomes and redefine standards of care. For the patient, a da Vinci procedure can offer all the benefits of a minimally invasive procedure, including less pain, less blood loss and less need for blood transfusions. Patients have a shorter hospital stay, a quicker recovery and faster return to normal activities. Clinical studies also suggest the da Vinci System may help surgeons provide better clinical outcomes than conventional technologies allow.