Robotics has revolutionized the MedTech Industry by assisting surgeons in performing surgeries with computer-controlled robots. These advancements leverage an accurate, automated surgery system to tailor surgical procedures to the patient's disease. Minimally invasive surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with traditional open surgery, depending on the situation.
Robotic surgery, also known as robot-assisted surgery, is a rapidly growing technology in medical technology (MedTech), with an estimated market value of $98,737.0 million by 2024. This technology has gained significant popularity due to its demonstrated benefits in scientific research, such as reduced hospital stays, faster recovery times, and improved surgical precision. For instance, a clinical trial led by scientists at UCL, and the University of Sheffield displayed how robot-assisted surgery can be used for bladder cancer removal and reconstruction, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital stay for patients.
Robot-assisted surgery consists of three components that make up the system: the surgeon’s console, the patient trolley, and the viewing trolley. Using these components, surgeons can view and guide the instruments to mimic the procedure, while having complete control over the devices and instruments from their seated position. A real-time, high-resolution 3D image of the patient’s internal anatomy can be displayed on the console.
The patient cart, which contains the cameras and instruments needed for surgery, is placed next to the patient on whom the surgery is performed. The Vision Cart is an important system used to ensure smooth communication between all components of the robot-assisted surgery system. The components required for various surgical procedures may vary depending on the specific surgical system.
Robotic surgery is highly effective for complex procedures that require an elevated level of precision, which may not be possible with traditional methods. It offers greater flexibility to surgeons, enabling them to focus on complexity rather than performing standard processes in time-consuming situations.
With robotic surgery, surgeons can thoroughly examine the surgical site, obtaining a clearer view that allows for greater precision. They also have more control over the operations being performed, resulting in better outcomes.
Robotic surgery has numerous benefits for both surgeons and patients. It allows surgeons to perform delicate surgeries with precision while minimizing fatigue during the procedure. Compared to traditional surgery, which can require hours of standing, robotic surgery allows for a more comfortable seated position. Additionally, the robotic arm is flexible and can reach places that are difficult for humans, making it a preferred option in certain cases.
For patients, robotic surgery offers numerous benefits, such as faster recovery times and a lower risk of infection. Minimally invasive surgery creates a small incision, resulting in less pain compared to traditional surgery.
Robotic surgery has a lower risk of infection and is painless, as minimally invasive surgery creates a small area and less pain compared to fully invasive surgery.
Kidney Surgery: This surgery may be required when a kidney or part of a kidney needs to be removed. It requires a large incision, up to 20 cm, to perform the operation in traditional kidney surgery. However, with the minimally invasive method in robotic surgery, the incision size is much smaller. Robotic renal surgery for kidney disease allows the body to heal faster and patients to resume their daily lives more quickly.
Gynecologic Surgery: The implementation of robotic surgery has revolutionized gynecologic surgery and offers several advantages over conventional surgical techniques. It results in less pain and less blood loss after surgery. However, conventional gynecological surgery is associated with significant pain and physical trauma, and open surgery involves a large incision that lengthens the recovery process. In contrast, robotic surgery uses smaller incisions that create smaller scars and can lead to faster recovery times compared to open surgery.
Cholecystectomy: It is a surgical process to remove the gallbladder. Surgeons are now able to perform surgery with a single incision with the help of robot-assisted surgical systems. This means less scarring, less bleeding, and a much faster healing time than open surgery. Robotic colorectal surgery may be required when a patient requires a colectomy or has other conditions such as benign tumors. With the help of robotic surgery systems, surgeons are now better able to perform colon surgeries once thought impossible. Nerves are not damaged during surgery due to the small incision and other advantages. Additionally, tissue cutting with robotic surgery systems is much easier due to the much-improved visibility and high accuracy.
While robotic surgery can offer several benefits for eligible patients, eligibility is dependent on individual factors such as the patient’s health condition and the specific procedure. Therefore, robotic surgery cannot be treated as a universal solution. For example, patients with any type of calcification or with peripheral arterial disease may not be suitable candidates for the procedure. Additionally, for certain procedures like robotic mitral valve reconstruction, the patient must not have a major coronary artery occlusion.
However, for eligible patients, the minimal invasion of robotic surgery can lead to faster recovery, less pain, and reduced surgical trauma. With its advantages over open surgery and high degree of dexterity, it allows surgeons to operate in a tight space with accuracy. Ultimately, the decision to pursue robotic surgery should be made on a case-by-case basis with the guidance of a medical professional.
eInfochips has a wealth of experience in developing medical devices for monitoring, diagnostics and imaging, wearable health, and telemedicine, with expertise in engineering FDA Class 2 and Class 3 products. Our medical product engineering services comply with HIPAA regulations and are guided by our extensive knowledge of process standards such as IEC 60601-1/2/6, IEC 62304, 510K, and ISO 13485.
