Technology

We offer minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic assisted surgery at Willis Knighton Health hospitals, including access to the advanced da Vinci Surgical System®. While not every surgery can be performed using this technology, it does have advantages for the patient and the surgeon.

With the da Vinci Surgical System®, we operate through just a few small incisions. This technology features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human hand. This offers the surgeon better vision, precision and control.

Advantages of robotic surgery:

  • Minimally invasive/fewer incisions
  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Greater precision
  • Video monitoring during surgery

About the da Vinci Surgical System

Overview

The da Vinci Surgical System is an advanced robotic platform that allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with great precision. da Vinci procedures are performed with minimally-invasive techniques that minimize scarring and pain during recovery. Compared to traditional surgery, a da Vinci procedure can offer a higher success rate and a shorter recovery time.

da Vinci Mobile Cart

The multiple robotic arms of the da Vinci Surgical System are housed on a mobile cart that is positioned next to the patient. Tiny, interchangeable surgical instruments are attached to the robotic arms and inserted through small incisions, along with an endoscopic camera.

da Vinci Console

The endoscopic camera allows the surgeon, positioned remotely at the da Vinci console, to view the surgical site in high-resolution 3D. The console also translates the surgeon's hand movements into precise micro-movements of the da Vinci instruments during the procedure.

da Vinci EndoWrist® Instruments

A wide variety of instrument types can be used with the da Vinci system. These instruments are designed to help surgeons perform precise, specialized tasks. Each EndoWrist instrument can pivot 180° and swivel 360°', allowing a freedom of movement during surgery greater than the human wrist.

A Better Minimally-Invasive Surgery

In a traditional, open surgical procedure, a large incision is made to allow the surgeon access to the surgical site. A robotically-assisted da Vinci surgical procedure requires only a few small, 1-2 centimeter incisions. Patients will have less pain, less scarring and a shorter recovery time. A da Vinci procedure minimizes blood loss, reduces the need for transfusion and reduces the risk of infection.

Safety Protocols

The da Vinci Surgical System is designed to provide safety and the utmost care for the patient. The system is always under the control of the surgeon and cannot be programmed or make decisions on its own. The da Vinci system also performs millions of safety checks during a procedure, and can safely shut down in the case of power interruption.

Fatigue Reduction

The da Vinci Surgical System also reduces surgeon fatigue. The surgeon is seated comfortably at the console during the entire procedure, while the intruments are held securely in position by the robotic arms.

The Future of Surgery

The da Vinci Surgical System is at the forefront of medical science. It provides patients with the most precise and safe surgical experience available today.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Willis Knighton Health