Vishal Soni

Robotic surgery is a latest technique for repairing hernias. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that’s an alternative to traditional laparoscopic and open surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon sits at a console and maneuvers the surgical instruments (robot) from the console. Advantages of robotic surgery include three-dimensional view of the inside of your abdomen, precise and tremor free movements of the instruments, smaller scars, less pain and a faster recovery time. Overview of Robotic Hernia Surgery What is robotic hernia surgery (robotic hernia repair surgery)? Robotic hernia surgery is a type of surgery that uses small cuts to treat hernias. A hernia is when an organ pushes through the muscle or tissue wall that contains it. Robotic hernia surgery puts the herniated organ back where it belongs and closes the muscles where the organs are pushing through, so you have a strong barrier. Robotic hernia surgery is sometimes called robotic-assisted laparoscopy. Unlike open surgery, which involves one large incision (cut), laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery allow your surgeon to operate using a few small cuts. They insert a tiny scope with a camera that allows them to see your organs on a screen while they repair your hernia through the incisions.  During a robotic hernia, your surgeon controls the robotic arms and instruments from a screen that’s next to you. This technology allows your surgeon to make precise movements and repair difficult or complex hernias with small cuts rather than a large incision.Fewer cuts usually mean less bleeding, less pain and a shorter recovery time. What conditions does robotic hernia surgery treat? Robotic surgery can repair smaller hernias or rebuild your entire abdominal wall. Common types of hernias robotic hernia surgery treats include: Inguinal hernias Tissue in your abdomen (like belly fat or part of your intestines) pokes through your abdominal wall in an area called the inguinal canal. This is in your groin area. Femoral hernia  Tissue in your abdomen pokes through your abdominal wall into an area called the femoral canal. It’s located just underneath the inguinal canal. Hiatal hernia The top of your stomach pokes through the opening in your diaphragm and into your chest wall. Incisional hernia An organ or tissue pokes through an incision where you previously had surgery. Umbilical hernias Part of your intestine pokes through your abdominal wall near your belly button. Other types of hernias that may involve robotic surgery include: How common is robotic hernia repair surgery? Traditionally, surgeons use open surgery to repair hernias. But as surgical technology improves, more surgeons are choosing laparoscopic or robotic approaches. Robotic hernia repair surgery is still new. Its first reported use in humans was in 2007. Since then, robotic hernia repair surgery has become more popular as surgeons have learned more and become more familiar with the technology’s potential benefits. Procedure Details How should I prepare for this procedure? You’ll work with your surgeon to ensure you’re a good candidate for robotic hernia surgery. Laparoscopic or robotic surgery isn’t always the best option for your specific hernia. It depends on your unique case. Your surgeon will consider multiple factors, including: The size of your hernia. How complex the repair will be. How well you tolerate anesthesia (laparoscopy usually requires general anesthesia). Whether this is your first hernia surgery or if it’s to repair a hernia that’s returned. If you need to have any scars or excess skin removed at the same time as hernia surgery. Your surgeon may also discuss available options if they find an occult (or hidden) hernia during surgery. These hernias don’t show up during exams or ultrasounds, but your provider may find one while repairing your diagnosed hernia. According to research, surgeons find occult hernias in 16% of robotic inguinal hernia repairs. It’s important to have a plan in place in case your surgeon finds this type of hernia during surgery. What happens during robotic hernia repair surgery? You may need to pee first so your bladder’s empty. Or you may need a Foley catheter to collect your urine during the repair. During the procedure, a surgeon sits at a console near your bedside that allows them to control the surgical instruments (robot) they use to operate. The specific steps vary, but surgery generally goes like this: You’ll receive general anesthesia to put you to sleep so you don’t feel any pain during surgery. Your surgeon will make a few (usually three or four) incisions. They’ll insert a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope into one of your incisions. The laparoscope connects to a video camera (smaller than a dime) that projects a detailed, three-dimensional view of your insides onto screens in the operating room. Your surgeon will inflate your abdomen with a harmless gas (carbon dioxide), making it easier for them to see the internal structures they need to operate on. Your surgeon will maneuver the robot to repair your hernia. Repair may involve stitching tissue together and using mesh to reinforce the tissue. Once the repair is complete, your surgeon will close your incisions with sutures or staples. What is the average time for robotic hernia repair? Surgery time depends on how complex the repair is. Simple procedures may be as short as 30 minutes. More complex procedures may take five hours or longer. Some studies suggest that, on average, robotic hernia repair takes longer than laparoscopic repair without a robot or open surgery. What should I expect after robotic hernia surgery? You’ll wake in a recovery room, likely feeling groggy from the anesthesia. You may notice bruising and swelling at the incision sites. This is normal. Your care team will work with you to assess your pain. Most people need to take NSAIDs to help with the pain. It typically takes an hour or two to feel well enough to go home. Most people go home the same day of their surgery, but you may need to stay in the hospital overnight if your surgery is more complex. Plan to have someone drive you home,