da Vinci SP robotic surgery
At Urology Austin, several of our providers have specialized training on da Vinci robotic systems to perform urological surgeries. Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive approach that has traditionally used several small incisions to allow access to robotically controlled surgical instruments and accessories. The latest in the da Vinci series of robots is the da Vinci SP (Single Port) system. The technology of this system is unique in that it scales down surgical access to a single incision. Through this opening (port), an expanded palette of surgical implements are maneuvered by surgeons while giving them 360 degree flexibility during the procedure. Surgical tools utilized by providers now include forceps, surgical hooks, needle drivers, clip appliers, graspers and dissectors. Additional accessories include a 3D high resolution camera and a suction irrigation tool.
This Single Port robotic system was given initial clearance by the Food and Drug Administration in April 2014, and further clearance for urological surgeries (suitable for single port entrance) in May 2018. In April 2019, two of our providers, Dr. Peter Ruff and Dr. Carl Bischoff underwent training at Intuitive Surgical in California on this latest da Vinci device. Dr. Ruff and Dr. Bischoff were designated as the 14th and 15th surgeons trained on the da Vinci SP robot worldwide. Since that time, Dr. David Cuellar and Dr. Eric Giesler have also been trained on the daVinci SP system and is now performing surgeries using this platform.
With the SP device, our providers will be able to perform robotic procedures for symptoms related to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH or enlarged prostate), radical prostatectomy (prostate), partial and radical nephrectomy (kidneys), radical cystectomy (bladder), pyeloplasty (obstruction), and other urologic reconstructive surgeries for the ureters, bladder and kidneys.
Benefits of robotic surgery
Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive approach that is performed in a hospital setting while patients are under general anesthesia. Robotic surgery allows surgeons more flexibility, precise maneuverability, improved visualization and magnification of the surgical site. Compared to an open surgery, this technique has the documented potential of less blood loss, less pain post surgery, reduced complications, a shorter hospital stay and recovery time, and smaller scars at incision points. As with any procedure, patients will be advised by their surgeon of any possible risks.
Contact Urology Austin to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.
Watch Dr. Peter Ruff’s interview on KXAN TVs Studio 512 as he discusses prostate cancer statistics, screenings and treatment options including da Vinci Single Port robotic surgery. Air date: September 16, 2021
Related video
This video is about the Da Vinci Single Port (SP) robot and features both Dr. Carl Bischoff and Dr. Peter Ruff. This video was produced and is the property of St. David’s South Austin Medical Center. The link is from YouTube.