Since 2001, Cleveland Clinic has been using the state-of-the-art robotic surgical system approved by the FDA for many surgical procedures. Cleveland Clinic was one of the nation's first medical centers to offer minimally invasive surgical treatment for prostate cancer: robotic radical prostatectomy. Now, robotic-assisted surgery is enabling surgeons to perform this complex minimally invasive surgery with more precision, offering patients improved outcomes. We have performed over 1,000 robotic and laparoscopic prostatectomy procedures to date and continue to be the leaders in the prostatectomy field.
Our underlying principle is to provide care with a degree of unparalleled dedication and excellence. The Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute was ranked #2 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in its 2010 "America's Best Hospitals" survey.
In addition, Cleveland Clinic was named one of the nation's top 4 hospitals in that survey.
What is Robotic-Assisted surgery?
Robotic-assisted surgery, a type of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), uses surgical robotic equipment, which imitates surgical movements. MIS procedures allow surgeons to operate through small ports rather than large incisions, resulting in shorter recovery times, fewer complications and reduced hospital stays. Surgical robotics combines minimally invasive techniques with highly advanced clinical technology.
How does Robotic-Assisted Surgery work?
The computer-enhanced minimally invasive surgical system consists of three components that provide:
- A 3-D view of the surgical field, including depth of field, magnification and high resolution
- Robotic instruments that are designed to mimic the movement of the human hands, wrists and fingers, allowing an extensive range of motion and more precision.
- Master controls that allow the surgeon to manipulate the instruments, translating the surgeon's natural hand and wrist movements into corresponding, precise and scaled robotic movements
Live Video of Robot in Action!
Dr. J. Kaouk demonstrates how he manipulates the robotic hand controls to move the robot.
How does the new robotic technology assist the surgeon?
The three-dimensional vision system magnifies the surgical field up to 15 times and improves the ability of the surgeon to recognize and control small blood vessels, thereby reducing blood loss. Because of robotic technology, surgeons are able to perform minimally invasive procedures with more precision. Robotic arms remain steady at all times and robotic wrists make it easier for surgeons to manipulate tissue and work from all kinds of angles - positions surgeons would have difficulty reaching otherwise.
