Robotic-Assisted Cancer Surgery

Robotic-assisted cancer surgery (da Vinci ™ Surgical System) uses computer technology that becomes an extension of the surgeon’s wrists, hands, and fingers to remove cancer in a delicate, precise manner while preserving surrounding nerves and tissues. The robot provides high-definition, three-dimensional (3D) view of the cancerous area during the procedure, which improves the surgeon's visualization and precision.

In general, robotic-assisted surgery is associated with less post-operative pain and blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and a return to everyday activities in less time than with traditional open surgery.

At MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, our physicians offer world-class cancer care and have extensive experience with robotic-assisted surgery.

Understanding the procedure

Robotic-assisted procedures are performed by a surgeon who has special training on how to use this technology. During the procedure, the surgeon sits at a console in the surgical suite and monitors the video screens to direct the robotic arms to perform the surgery. The robot’s arms hold the surgical tools and seamlessly translate the surgeon’s natural hand, wrist and finger movements from controls at the console to the surgical instruments inside the patient. The three-dimensional view of the area allows the surgeon to target the cancer with pinpoint accuracy.

Indications for the procedure

Robotic surgery is currently used to treat bladder, cervical, head and neck, kidney, lung, ovarian, prostate, and uterine cancers.