What are the pros and cons of doing a bariatric Surgery using robotic technique ?
Robotic surgery is emerging in a big way in the major metropolitan cities of India. Increased research in this field has led to the
development of enabling technology which can ofsfer numerous advantages to the patients and doctors.
Pros of robotic surgery -
- Enhanced 3D vision with better visualisation of internal anatomy especially in difficult cases
- Improved ergonomics and better dexterity of instruments leads to greater precision of surgery
- Less fatigue for surgeon in prolonged surgeries as the surgeon is positioned on the console
- Less requirement for trained camera assistant and surgical assistants especially in places where skilled manpower is expensive
Cons of robotic surgery -
- Heavy initial expenditure in terms of investment and OT setup to accommodate the robot
- High running cost as instruments have short life span
- Specialised training required which is not readily a single in smaller cities and remote areas
Though robotic surgery has a role in the current scenario as well as the future of bariatric surgery, certain practical aspects limit its
application for the masses. It has a particular benefit in extremely high BMI patients, those with very low abdominal wall compliance and
in re-operative situations where the anatomy is distorted. The application of robotic surgery to routine cases would entail a very high investment
which would translate into increased cost of surgery without perceived clinical benefits in outcomes.