From an interview with
Dr. Srinivas Kolla
McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates

Robotic assisted surgery, a form of minimally-invasive surgery, allows a surgeon to perform many types of complex procedures with more precision, flexibility, and control than traditional techniques. During a robotic assisted surgery, the surgeon operates through a few small incisions controlling the robot’s every move from a console in the operating room. The surgeon guides the robot to manipulate the surgical instruments inside the patient and views a surgical site through a high definition 3-D camera.

Thoracic robotic assisted surgery, used for the treatment of lung disease and lung cancer, allows a surgeon to easily reach the lungs. This surgery produces better outcomes, less pain, better staging of lung cancer, and fewer postoperative complications. With thoracic robotic assisted surgery, patients find themselves returning to their daily activities in just two weeks.

Preparing for Robotic-Assisted Surgery

• Lose weight if you are overweight. A healthy weight makes access inside the body safer, makes the body better able to tolerate the positioning, makes surgery safer and faster, decreases the risk of complications during surgery, decreases the risk of wound infection and speeds healing.
• Quit smoking. If surgery is not for a month, quitting smoking improves lung function and oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood as well as a myriad of other benefits. However, if surgery is within two weeks, do not quit until after surgery to prevent increased mucous production in the respiratory tract.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle. A healthy body is more likely to have a safe surgery and quicker, uncomplicated recovery. A healthy lifestyle includes eating your vegetables and fruits and getting adequate exercise. Consider taking a multivitamin. Control your diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. Get plenty of rest to avoid getting a cough or cold prior to surgery, which could result in having to reschedule when you are healthy.

To learn more about robotic-assisted surgery, speak with a thoracic surgeon near you.