How does the Robotic Surgery work?

The current Robotic Surgical System consists of four components: 1) a SURGEON CONSOLE where the surgeon sits, views the screen, and controls the robotic instruments and camera via finger graspers and foot pedals; 2) a ROBOTIC CART with four interactive arms that hold instruments through trocars attached to the patient; 3) a VISION CART WITH CAMERA that allows for a three-dimensional image of the surgical field using image synchronizers and illuminators; and 4) WRISTED INSTRUMENTS that translate the mechanical movements of the surgeon’s hands into computer algorithms that direct the instruments’ movements

During Robotic Surgery, small incisions are made on the patient’s abdomen/chest through which three to four trocars are introduced into the patient. Through these trocars, a few instruments and an endoscope (camera) are placed. These ports are “docked” (connected) to the robot which enables the surgeon to operate from the console which is connected to the robotic cart. The primary surgeon sits unscrubbed at the console in the operating room at some distance from the patient, using finger graspers and foot pedals to control the instruments (just like in a video game). The console provides 3D imaging with improved depth perception, and the surgeon has independent control of the camera and instruments. Finally, the robotic arm, with its wristed joint and six degrees of freedom, allows for greater dexterity than unassisted surgery and decreases normal hand tremors.

What are the advantages of Robotic Surgery?