The human body is regarded as the most complex machine of all, encompassing various cells, tissues, and organs, functioning both separately and collaboratively to support our existence. Like any machine, it also requires repair and fixing from time to time to function smoothly including removing defective organs through surgery. To be clear, only those organs are removed without which survival is possible such as the appendix and gallbladder. Gallbladder removal doesn’t inhibit other bodily functions because its main function is just to collect and store bile produced by the liver. So even if it is removed, the bile will still be produced by the liver to help in digestion. With various advancements in the medical field, even the manner of gallbladder removal or cholecystectomy has become modernized with technology. Cholecystectomy is a relatively safe surgery and there are a number of leading general surgeons in Dallas performing the robotic gallbladder removal surgery. Continue reading, as we discuss all you need to know about robotic cholecystectomy.
What is Robotic Cholecystectomy?
The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ present beneath the liver that performs the function of storing and concentrating bile (a digestive enzyme). The surgical procedure for the removal of gallbladder with the help of robotics technology is called a robotic cholecystectomy. It is a low-risk surgery and is prescribed when the gallstones (hardened part of the bile) accumulated in the gallbladder block the common bile duct and cause pain and other symptoms in the patient.
Procedure
In robotic cholecystectomy, a few small incisions are made to insert a laparoscope with a miniature camera and other surgical equipment inside the stomach. The surgeon handles the movements on the patient’s body through robotic arms and a viewing monitor. The robotic arms help to remove the gallbladder precisely without any injury to the bile duct. This is possible with the use of advanced laser technology that facilitates a better internal view than traditional laparoscopy. After removing the gallbladder, surgeons suture the incision and keep the patient under observation.
In contrast, the traditional open procedure involves making one large incision on the upper right side of the stomach to remove the gallbladder. It takes about 1-2 hours to perform open surgery and subsequently more time for recovery. Open procedures are becoming less common today because of the greater efficiency, lesser pain, and lesser recovery time of robotic procedures.
Risk
With the help of robot arms, gall bladder removal surgery has become less complicated, but still like any other surgery it involves a few risks such as bile leakage, infection, bleeding, injury to nearby structures, and risk of general anesthesia. The chances of experiencing complications also depend upon the patient’s general health. Although the possibility of complications is rare, still patients should be in touch with their surgeons to keep a tab on their progress. To learn further about the risks and complications involved in gallbladder surgery, especially for your specific condition, consult an experienced general surgeon in your area.
Prognosis
A gall bladder removal surgery or robotic cholecystectomy is recommended because it can give relief to a patient from experiencing frequently occurring pain and discomfort due to gallstones. It is also a proven corrective measure to treat cases of recurring gallstones. Removal of the gallbladder does not have any significant effect on the human digestive process, so the patient is not supposed to experience any serious digestive issues later on. In some cases, the patient may experience loose stool frequently as an immediate post-op effect, but it can be resolved with proper diet and time. Consult a leading general surgeon in Dallas who can offer both pre and post-operative health advice and has the team to care for effective recovery.
Post-op Care
In robotic cholecystectomy, patients are usually allowed to go home the same day. In rare cases, one night stay in the hospital is required. Patients get the advantage of faster recovery and can expect a full recovery within a week or so. In contrast, open surgery requires the patient to stay in the hospital for at least 2 – 3 days, and a full recovery is expected in 4-6 weeks, afterward. To the patient who wants a full recovery in less time, robotic cholecystectomy is a better option for you. However, the suitable type of surgery for you can only be determined after doing a thorough health evaluation.
Conclusion
Robotic cholecystectomy offers various advantages and has become a popular choice for a lot of patients. It is a less painful procedure with effective results and a fast recovery period than open surgery. There are a lot of general surgeons in Dallas offering robotic gallbladder removal surgery. If you have been prescribed gallbladder removal surgery, you can consider a robotic cholecystectomy after consultation with your surgeon.
