What is Robotic colectomy?
A robotic colectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that employs a robotic system to treat conditions affecting the colon (large intestine), such as colon cancer, infections, and inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Depending on the condition, the surgery can involve either a partial colectomy, where only a portion of the colon is removed, or a total colectomy, where the entire colon is taken out.
When treating colon cancer, the surgeon removes the cancerous tumour and the associated vascular and lymphatic structures. Depending on the cancer stage, this procedure can be curative in many cases.
A robotic colectomy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery. It is performed using several small incisions rather than a single long incision, which results in less tissue trauma. The surgeon controls the robotic system, which provides improved precision and visualization through small, controlled movements. This approach reduces postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Additionally, patients typically experience quicker gastrointestinal recovery, allowing them to resume eating sooner, and often need less or no narcotic pain medication after the surgery.
Why might you need a Robotic colectomy?
You might need a robotic colectomy if you have certain conditions affecting your colon that require surgical intervention. Some of the primary reasons for a robotic colectomy include:
- Colon Cancer: If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, removing part or all of the colon may be necessary to eliminate cancerous tissues and prevent the spread of the disease.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation, damage, or blockages in the colon, which may require surgical removal of the affected area.
- Bowel Obstructions: If the colon is blocked due to scarring, tumours, or other reasons, a robotic colectomy can help restore normal bowel function.
- Diverticulitis: In cases of severe or recurring diverticulitis (infection or inflammation of small pouches in the colon), surgery may be needed to remove the affected portion of the colon.
- Excessive Bleeding: If you experience chronic gastrointestinal bleeding that cannot be controlled through other treatments, surgery may be required to remove the source of the bleeding.
- Non-cancerous Growths (Polyps): Some large polyps at risk of turning cancerous or causing complications may also need to be surgically removed through a colectomy.
Robotic colectomy is often chosen because it offers benefits such as smaller incisions, quicker recovery, and less post-surgical discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.
Robotic Surgery System at Apex Hospitals
Robotic colectomy is performed using the SSI MANTRA surgical system. This cutting-edge, India-made robotic platform enables surgeons to treat the conditions affecting the colon with superior vision, control, and precision, all at an affordable cost. Our advanced program is supported by highly skilled surgeons, nurses, and technicians, all trained to utilize this technology expertly. By minimizing surgical trauma, we strive to improve our patients' long-term survival rates and enhance their overall quality of life.
Risks Associated with Robotic colectomy
Like any surgical procedure, robotic colectomy comes with potential risks, which may include:
- Injury to surrounding organs and tissues, such as the bladder or small intestine.
- Tears in the sutures that reconnect the remaining portions of the digestive system.
- Faecal incontinence, which could affect bowel control post-surgery.
- Infection at the surgical site can occur despite precautions.
- Anaesthesia-related complications may arise during the procedure.
Though these risks are possible, they are generally low, mainly when our experienced medical team performs the surgery.
What happens during Robotic colectomy?.
During a robotic colectomy, the patient is placed under general anaesthesia, which ensures they remain asleep throughout the procedure. Once the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen to insert specialized surgical instruments and a tiny camera. The camera provides a detailed view of the body's inside, displayed on a high-definition screen. Carbon dioxide is used to inflate the abdomen to create more working space.
The surgeon operates from a console, precisely controlling the robotic arms and instruments. The robotic system enhances the surgeon’s ability to perform delicate movements while maintaining a clear, magnified view of the surgical site. As in a traditional colectomy, the surgeon removes the diseased or damaged portion of the colon and reconnects the healthy sections.
For patients needing a total colectomy, the small intestine is connected directly to the anus. In some cases, the intestines may be rerouted to an opening in the abdomen, where waste is collected. The specific procedure depends on the patient’s medical condition.
Speak to Our Team About Robotic colectomy
If you're considering a robotic colectomy or want to explore whether it's the right option, our expert team is here to help. We provide personalized consultations to discuss your medical needs, answer any questions, and guide you through the process. Contact us today to learn more about robotic colectomy and how it can benefit your treatment and recovery journey.
