Robotic colorectal surgery

Robotic colorectal surgery refers to the use of robotic systems to perform surgical procedures on the colon, rectum, and other parts of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Over the last two decades, advancements in robotic technology have revolutionized the way colorectal surgeries are performed, providing both surgeons and patients with significant benefits over traditional open and laparoscopic techniques. Robotic-assisted surgery offers improved precision, enhanced visualization, and a minimally invasive approach, making it an increasingly popular choice for the treatment of various colorectal conditions, including cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, and colorectal polyps.

At the core of robotic colorectal surgery is the use of a robotic surgical system, the most commonly used being the da Vinci Surgical System. This system consists of three main components:
Surgeon Console This is where the surgeon sits and controls the robotic arms. The console provides a high-definition 3D view of the surgical site, with magnification, allowing for enhanced visualization and precision.
Patient-side Cart: This is the part of the robot that is positioned near the patient. It includes robotic arms equipped with specialized surgical instruments that the surgeon controls from the console.
Endoscope and Camera System: A high-definition camera is inserted into the body through small incisions, providing real-time, magnified images of the surgical area. This camera feeds detailed images to the surgeon’s console for better decision-making.
The robotic system’s ability to translate the surgeon’s hand movements into precise movements of the robotic arms allows for greater dexterity, making it easier to perform complex surgeries in confined anatomical spaces like the pelvis or the abdomen.