Robotic Surgery Specialist

What is robotic surgery?

The term “robotic surgery” can evoke images of a boxy, 1980s-version silver robot poised over a helpless patient immobilized on a surgical table. In reality, robotic surgery is an astounding technological advancement that has forever altered the way many surgeries are performed.

To begin, there’s no need for concern about the role of artificial intelligence in your surgical procedure. M. Shane Dawson, MD, FACS, remains in full control of the robotic device at all times. Most robotic surgery systems consist of three or more robotic arms equipped with specialized surgical tools.

Dr. Dawson performs the surgery while seated near the operating table. He’s able to view the surgical site due to a lighting system and a high definition camera that delivers real-time imaging.  

In some procedures, Dr. Dawson also instructs members of a surgical team to perform certain functions, similarly to the team approach used in traditional surgery.

What are the benefits of robotic surgery?

There are many reasons why robotic surgery is the preferred choice for many of today’s most common procedures. Some of the benefits include:

• Smaller external scars
• Faster recovery
• Lower risk of complications, including infection and bleeding
• Less pain during recovery

There’s also the fact that even a skilled and highly sought-after surgeon like Dr. Dawson is inherently limited by human anatomy. There is a limited range of motion that human hands, wrists, and fingers can achieve, and there are times when different movements are required.

A robotic surgery system enables precise movements in an almost unlimited range of motion. That degree of flexibility is a big part of what makes robotic surgery so appealing to surgeons.

Am I a good candidate for robotic surgery?

While robotic surgery systems offer an impressive range of benefits, this approach is not the right solution to every set of needs. Some surgeries are still better suited to traditional open or laparoscopic techniques.

Robotic surgery is most often used in conjunction with laparoscopic surgery. However, there are also open surgeries that can make great use of robotic platforms. Robotic surgery can be a good fit for hernia repair, gallbladder removal, and colon resection surgery, among others.

It’s important to note that there are times when robotic surgery is the planned approach, but unexpected conditions arise during the procedure that require Dr. Dawson to switch to an open technique.

To learn more about how M. Shane Dawson, MD, FACS, uses robotic surgery technology to improve surgical outcomes, request an appointment today. You can do so using the easy online scheduling tool, or simply call to speak with a member of the administrative staff.