Robotic weight loss surgery, also known as robot-assisted bariatric surgery, involves the use of advanced robotic technology to assist surgeons in performing weight loss procedures. This approach utilizes a surgical system consisting of robotic arms controlled by the surgeon from a console. The robotic arms are equipped with specialized instruments and cameras that provide high-definition, three-dimensional views of the surgical site. With precise control and enhanced visualization, robotic surgery aims to improve the accuracy and safety of weight loss procedures such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and gastric banding.
How is Robotic Weight Loss Surgery Performed?
Robotic weight loss surgery utilizes the da Vinci Robotic Surgery System, an advanced surgical assistance tool. With the da Vinci robot, bariatric surgeons can conduct weight loss procedures with computer-guided, magnified, and three-dimensional visualization. During the surgery, the surgeon controls the robot through small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. The da Vinci system’s four robotic arms translate the surgeon’s movements into highly precise actions within the patient’s body.
Who is a Candidate For Robotic Weight Loss Surgery?
Individuals who are severely obese may qualify for robotic surgery, typically defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeding 40, which often equates to being over 100 pounds overweight. Additionally, those with a BMI over 35, accompanied by medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, may also be eligible candidates. The enhanced visualization provided by the robotic system empowers surgeons with greater precision and control, particularly beneficial for patients dealing with severe obesity.
The Benefits of Robotic Bariatric Surgery
The da Vinci Surgical System provides Mercy Health surgeons with an expanded view of the stomach and adjacent organs, enhancing their precision and control during surgery. Compared to traditional laparoscopic weight loss procedures, robotic bariatric surgery offers patients a range of potential advantages, such as:
- Accelerated recovery
- Decreased pain and scarring
- Expedited return to normal activities
- Reduced likelihood of complications
- Minimized trauma to the body
- Diminished risk of infections
- Shorter hospital stays
- Markedly reduced incidence of gastrointestinal leaks
- Lower probability of requiring additional surgical interventions
What is the Recovery Like?
Following robotic bariatric surgery, the majority of patients typically undergo a recovery period lasting two to three weeks, during which adequate rest is essential to facilitate healing. Adhering to your doctor’s guidance regarding calorie intake during this phase is crucial. It’s advisable to refrain from exercising during the recovery period. Collaborating with your bariatric surgeon and weight loss team to devise a gradual exercise regimen is recommended to promote a safe and effective return to physical activity.
Robotic Bariatric Surgery in Northern Virginia
Bariatric surgery offers many benefits, including reduced appetite or limited absorption of calories. Not only does the surgery help patients lose excess weight, but it improves overall health and treats other conditions and issues at hand. This includes high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and more.
It is important to understand that this is an effective treatment but still requires patients to make small changes in their daily lives. Bariatric surgery can be a life changing event. To learn more about life after bariatric surgery, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today
