Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique where surgeons use a computer-controlled robot to assist them in performing complex procedures. Instead of making large incisions, surgeons operate through tiny openings, using robotic technology to enhance their precision, flexibility, and control.

How Robotic Surgery Works

A robotic surgery system typically includes a camera arm and several mechanical arms with surgical instruments attached. The surgeon sits at a console near the operating table, controlling the arms and viewing a magnified, high-definition, 3D image of the surgical site. The robotic arms mimic the movements of a human wrist but with a greater range of motion, allowing surgeons to operate in tight spaces and reach areas that would be difficult to access with traditional surgery.

Benefits of Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, both for the patient and the surgeon:

• For Patients: Robotic surgery typically results in less pain, reduced blood loss, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and smaller scars. The smaller incisions also reduce the risk of post-operative complications and hernia formation. Because of the faster recovery, cancer patients who need chemotherapy after surgery can begin it sooner.
• For Surgeons: Robotic systems provide surgeons with greater visualization, enhanced dexterity, and increased precision. The 3D, high-definition vision system and magnified viewing monitor allow the surgeon to see the surgical site more clearly than with traditional techniques. The robotic arms' greater range of motion enables more precise and flexible instrument handling, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Robotic surgery can also be less physically demanding for surgeons, reducing fatigue and improving focus.

Robotic Surgery for Liver Cancer

Robotic surgery is a potential treatment option for liver cancer, allowing surgeons to remove cancerous growths with greater precision and control. Partial hepatectomy, or liver resection, is a surgery to remove part of the liver, and it can be performed via open, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery. Compared to open surgery, minimally invasive approaches like robotic surgery offer benefits such as less pain, fewer complications, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

Studies have shown that robotic liver resection can lead to improved overall survival, less blood loss, and lower readmission rates compared to laparoscopic liver surgery. Patients undergoing robotic liver resection may also experience shorter hospital stays, fewer admissions to the intensive care unit, and a lower incidence of post-operative liver failure than those undergoing open surgery.

Dipika Kakar's Experience

Popular television actress Dipika Kakar recently underwent robotic surgery for stage 2 liver cancer. According to Kakar and her husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, the robotic surgery facilitated a faster recovery. Instead of a large incision, she had six smaller cuts through which robotic tools and cameras were inserted to remove the tumor. Kakar was discharged from the hospital after 11 days and has been sharing updates on her recovery journey with her fans. She has emphasized the importance of robotic surgery in her quick recovery. Doctors also removed her gallbladder, which harbored stones, along with a portion of her liver. Just over two weeks after her surgery, Kakar was seen enjoying a family outing, signaling a positive step in her recovery.

Considerations

While robotic surgery offers numerous benefits, it is not suitable for every patient. The suitability of robotic surgery depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the tumor, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's expertise. In some cases, open surgery may still be necessary.

In conclusion, robotic surgery is a sophisticated surgical technique that offers several advantages for both patients and surgeons, particularly in the treatment of liver cancer. Actress Dipika Kakar's recent experience highlights the potential benefits of robotic surgery in terms of faster healing and reduced complications.