Robotic Surgery

da Vinci Robotic System

da Vinci Robotic Surgical System

The da Vinci robotic system is a state-of-the-art robotic surgical device used by Dr. Porter to treat prostate and kidney cancers. This is truly computer-assisted surgery, as Dr. Porter’s movements are enhanced by the robotic system resulting in a refined, smoother motion. The da Vinci System provides surgeons:

  • A 3-D high-definition view inside the patient’s body

  • Instruments that articulate and rotate far more than the human hand

  • Enhanced precision and control

  • 10 to 15x magnified vision

  • Ergonomic benefit for the surgeon due to the seated position during the procedure

The da Vinci technology enables surgeons to operate through a few small incisions instead of a large open incision. A surgeon’s hand movements are translated into the precise movements of micro-instruments, enabling the performance of complex surgical procedures. The system cannot be programmed or make decisions on its own; the surgeon is in 100% control at all times.

Radical Prostatectomy

One of the most common treatments for prostate cancer involves the surgical removal of the prostate gland, known as radical prostatectomy. Traditional radical prostatectomy requires an 8 to 10-inch incision. This open surgery commonly results in substantial blood loss, a lengthy and uncomfortable recovery, and the risk of impotence and incontinence. Compared to an open prostatectomy, the da Vinci robotic radical prostatectomy results in:

  • Shorter hospital stay

  • Less pain and scarring

  • Less risk of infection

  • Less blood loss and less risk of transfusion

  • Faster recovery and quicker return to normal activities

Partial Nephrectomy

Surgery to remove the kidney is known as a nephrectomy. When surgeons remove only the tumor and leave the healthy portion of the kidney remaining, it’s called a partial nephrectomy. Partial nephrectomy can be performed with open surgery, minimally invasive surgery using traditional laparoscopy, or laparoscopy with robotic assistance known simply as robotic surgery.  Compared to open surgery, robotic partial nephrectomy offers:

  • Shorter hospital stay

  • Less pain

  • Less blood loss

  • Fewer complications

  • Smaller incisions for less scarring

Compared to traditional laparoscopy, robotic partial nephrectomy offers:

  • Better kidney function

  • Shorter warm ischemic time

  • Less blood loss

  • Fewer complications

  • Ability to remove more complex tumors while maintaining the kidney