Da Vinci Surgical System

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Many of our surgeons perform robotic-assisted surgery with the use of the da Vinci Surgical System​. The da Vinci Surgical System, approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)​, has been used successfully in tens of thousands of minimally invasive procedures worldwide.  ​


With the Da Vinci, one- to two-centimeter incisions are used to allow very small instruments and a high-definition, three-dimensional camera to enter the body. The da Vinci consists of a surgeon’s console, a patient cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system and patented Endowrist instruments. 


At the surgeon’s console, the surgeon operates while seated comfortably, viewing a highly magnified 3D image of the body’s interior. To operate, the surgeon uses master controls that work like forceps. As the surgeon uses the controls, the da Vinci responds to the surgeon’s input in real time, translating his or her hand, wrist and finger movements into precise movements of very small instruments at the patient-side cart. The surgeon places these instruments into the body through a series of dime-sized incisions. A broad range of instrument types are available to help the surgeon perform specialized surgical tasks with precision and control.


da Vinci safety features include: 

  • It cannot be programmed or make decisions on its own. The surgeon controls every aspect of the surgery with the assistance of the da Vinci. 
  • Just as with traditional surgery, patients are under the care of the surgeon and an entire surgical team.  
  • The da Vinci translates the surgeon’s wrist or finger movements into precise movements of the instruments. This reduces unintended movements, which means the da Vinci instruments can move in a more precise manner than the human hand.  
  • Because the da Vinci patient cart does the work of holding the instruments and camera, and because the surgeon is seated comfortably during the operation, surgeons experience less fatigue.  
  • During the course of an operation, the da Vinci performs millions of safety self-checks. In the event of a power interruption or safety check failure, the system is designed to shut down safely, allowing the surgeon to remain in control of the procedure. ​

Although robotic-assisted surgery is considered safe and effective, it may not be appropriate for every patient. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options that may be appropriate for your medical condition, as well as their risks and benefits. ​

Benefits to Patients

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Compared to traditional surgery, robotic-assisted surgery offers the ​potential for:

  • less pain  
  • less risk of infection  
  • less blood loss  
  • fewer blood transfusions  
  • less scarring  
  • shorter hospital stays  
  • faster return to normal activities  
  • ​better clinical outcomes

Benefits to Surgeons

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For surgeons, robotic-assisted surgery can provide:​

  • greater surgical precision  
  • increased range of motion  
  • improved dexterity  
  • enhanced visualization  
  • improved access​