Robotic cholecystectomy

Robotic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the gallbladder, typically due to conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), or gallbladder dysfunction. The procedure is performed with the assistance of a robotic surgical system, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, which allows surgeons to perform highly precise movements and view the surgical site in 3D with enhanced clarity.

During a robotic cholecystectomy, several small incisions are made in the abdomen through which the surgeon inserts robotic instruments and a camera. The surgeon controls the robotic arms from a console, which provides magnified, high-definition images of the area. The gallbladder is carefully separated from the surrounding tissues, including the bile ducts and blood vessels, and is then removed through one of the incisions. The robotic system’s enhanced precision reduces the risk of damaging surrounding organs and allows for more intricate work, especially in challenging cases.

The benefits of robotic cholecystectomy over traditional open surgery include smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and less postoperative pain. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week to 10 days, compared to several weeks with open surgery. While robotic surgery is generally safe, it does come with risks such as infection, bleeding, or injury to nearby structures like the bile ducts. However, the precision offered by robotic systems greatly reduces the likelihood of complications, making robotic cholecystectomy an increasingly popular choice for gallbladder removal.