Robotic Surgery revolutionizes treatment for GI conditions

by admin-blog-kh | September 30, 2025 6:23 am

Summary

Robotic Surgery[1] is a natural progression from Minimally Invasive Surgery[2], and overcomes some of the limitations of the latter. The control, flexibility and precision offered by Robotic Surgery is revolutionizing treatment for various conditions that affect different parts of the body. Medical Technology companies, who have realized the opportunity around Robotic Surgery have jumped into the fray, thereby innovating, and expanding this field. When it comes to Gastro-Intestinal conditions, Robotic Surgery is a boon considering space limitations within the GI tract, or abdomen in general. In this article, we will learn more about Robotic Surgery.

Introduction

Open or incisional surgery comes with the drawback of blood-loss, collateral damage to surrounding tissue, scars from the incision, longer recovery-time, infections, etc. Over time, minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy and endoscopy[3] have emerged as a better alternative. By eliminating the need for long incisions, they do away with all the drawbacks of incisional surgery. However, such minimally invasive (MI) procedures have their own drawbacks, or rather limitations. They may be minor limitations, and a skilled surgeon can overcome the same, but nevertheless they are a concern.

Limitations of MI Surgery

In both Laparoscopy[4] and Endoscopy, small incisions are made on the skin, and surgical instruments required to perform an MI surgery are inserted into the required spot, through the incision.

• In case of Laparoscopy, the surgeon’s movement is restricted to the tiny invasion hole. As a result, the doctor cannot perceive the depth accurately. Further, the channels used to insert the instruments are rigid sticks, which again limits movement. The surgeon has a hard time feeling tissue, and therefore cannot assess how much force needs to be applied. Mastering this technique requires a lot of practise and patience.
• In contrast to laparoscopy, endoscopy uses flexible tubes as channels to insert surgical instruments to the concerned spot. This means, it has better flexibility than laparoscopy. However, a doctor who is tired on the day of the procedure could experience tremors or shaking of the hand. Visibility of the concerned area is also limited due to the quality and resolution of cameras used. The gastroenterologist[5] may also need to move his/her hand frequently to achieve best results. All this opens the door to human error.

Robotic surgery does away with all these limitations. The surgical instruments are fitted on to a sleek, robotic arm that can rotate freely. The robot’s movements are guided by an expert who is viewing the same on a computer console. A high-magnification camera is used to provide accurate, high-resolution 3D images.

History of Robotic Surgery 

• Robotic Surgery has a history of over 5 decades. The US government pushed for this innovation in order to treat astronauts and soldiers who don’t have access to a regular surgeon while at work. Between 1985 and 1992, robotic surgical-procedures were done for brain biopsy, prostate[7] surgery, leg operation, etc.
• The most significant breakthrough came in 1997 when the American company ‘Intuitive Surgical’ launched its ‘da Vinci Surgical System’ for GI surgeries. This was approved by the FDA, and since then, over 6000 robotic procedures using the da Vinci system have been performed across the world.
• Other companies like HollySys, Medtronic, Stryker, Cyberdyne, ReWalk Robotics, Globus, Johnson & Johnson, iRobot and Omron have also jumped into the fray sensing the huge opportunity.

GI Conditions treated using Robotic Surgery 

Benign (non-cancerous conditions)

• Colectomy: Removing a part of the colon. Also called Bowel Resection Surgery
• Proctectomy: Removing a part of the rectum, in order to treat rectal cancer[8]
• Gastrectomy: Removing a part of, or the entire- stomach
• Pancreatectomy: Removing a part of, or the entire- pancreas[9]
• Gastric bypass: Reducing the length of the stomach and small intestine in order to reduce food consumption, and hence weight of the person
• Appendectomy: Removing the appendix[10]
• Cholecystectomy: Removing the gallbladder
• Hernia repair: A mesh is placed around the tear, and the tissue strengthened
• Anti-reflux surgery for GERD, also called ‘fundoplication’: Here, the weakened lower esophageal sphincter is given a support
• Achalasia surgery, also called Heller myotomy: Here, the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter is reduced to make it easy for the person to swallow.
• Crohn’s disease: A type of inflammatory bowel disease[11] that causes inflammation in the GI tract
• Diverticulitis: Here, small bulging pouches called diverticulae develop in the GI tract
• Ulcerative colitis: A type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the outside lining of the large intestine
• Fistulas: Fistulas are abnormal connections between any two body parts, such as an organ and blood-vessel, organ and another tissue, etc.
• Rectal prolapse: a condition in which the rectum slips into the anus
• Liver resection – removing a part of the liver
• Splenectomy: removing the spleen
• Biliary strictures: a portion of the bile duct narrows down, which reduces bile flow
• Transanal conditions or TAMIS
• Removing benign lesions such as polyps and leiomyomas

Cancer Surgery 

• Hepatobiliary surgery: Removing malignant tumours in the liver, bile-ducts and gallbladder
• Treating pancreatic disease caused by either benign or malignant pancreatic cancer[13]
• Cancer in the stomach and junction of the stomach and esophogus
• Removing malignant tumours and abscesses including Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) and Sarcoma
• Paraganglioma, Carcinoid tumour and neuroendocrine tumour
• Adenocarcinoma tumours
• Colon cancer[14]
• Rectal cancer
• Palliative surgeries for any cancer in the GI tract
• Cancers of the spleen, small intestine and retroperitoneum

How is Robotic Surgery done

For the purpose of this article, we will discuss the da Vinci system, the pioneer and market leader in robotic surgery. Later-day systems from other manufacturers are modelled on this, with a few tweaks, innovations and value-additions, introduced later.

The da Vinci system consists of:

• Generally, four numbers of mechanical arms, with wrists, that have tiny surgical instruments fitted at the tip. The robotic arms ensure that the surgical instruments fitted at the tip can move with more flexibility, work with high precision, and manoeuvre around a lot more than what is possible with standard MI surgery. The robotic arms mimic the functions of the wrists and fingers, thereby offering great dexterity in movement. The highly dexterous arms help minimize the risk of scarring and any other complications. These arms make cutting, stapling, dissecting and other techniques more precise and effortless. The surgeon will not have to spend time pushing tissues or organs that come in the way, which is routine with open and MI surgeries.
• A special video camera that provides enhanced, colourful, magnified, real-time 3D views and videos of the surgical area. The high-clarity images from this camera are relayed to a monitor in the console described below. This helps the surgeon identity problematic tissues, and undertake any intervention with more ease and precision, than what would be possible by mere eyesight. The camera also goes inside the body, to the desired spot, through a robotic arm, so that it can be rotated around, with ease.
• A surgical console close to the operating table. This is basically a computer with monitor that shows the feed from the above camera. The computer runs sophisticated software that helps the surgeon control, direct and manoeuvre every move of the mechanical arms as well as the arm with the camera.

To begin with, the operating team makes incisions on the skin through which the robotic arms are gently pushed and positioned in place. During the procedure, surgeon-assistants stay close to the main surgeon operating the console. The assistants help change the instruments if required. The procedure is generally done under local anaesthesia. The patient is also given a mild sedative to prevent pain. Recovery is similar to other MI surgeries and the gastroenterologist will share a list of dos and don’ts with the patient.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery 

• Greater precision: The robotic arms mimic the hand and finger movements. But they are more precise, have a large range of motion and have better control, so they can be operated in tight spaces within the body.
• Better visualization: Highly sophisticated images and videos make it easy for the surgeon to take decisions based on what is seen. This eliminates the need for biopsies and diagnostic tests to be done later. Quick decision and quick intervention lead to quick outcomes.
• Minimal scarring: The incisions made in Robotic Surgery are much smaller than that during open, incisional surgery and smaller than what is required in MI surgeries. This way, there is less scarring, and tissues heal faster.
• Less invasive: Similar to MI surgeries, Robotic surgery offers many advantages. This includes lesser damage to surrounding tissue, reduced bleeding, bruising, soreness or infection at the site. There is also no risk from medication and anaesthesia. This way, there are fewer risks and complications from the procedure such as infections and hernia formations.
• Patient comfort is very high: There is less strain on the immune system now
• Quick recovery: While this is true of other MI surgeries also, the tiny incisions and precise execution in robotic surgery reduces trauma. So, there are fewer restrictions for the patient, who can resume a normal life quickly.

Robotic surgery is redefining safe and precise care for complex conditions, especially in the GI tract. At Kauvery Hospital[16], our skilled specialists use advanced technology to ensure faster recovery and better outcomes. With branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy, world-class treatment is always within your reach.

How is Robotic Surgery done? 

FAQ on Robotic Surgery 

What is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic Surgery is an advanced surgical technique where the surgeon controls robotic arms equipped with tiny instruments and a high-definition 3D camera. It offers greater precision, flexibility, and accuracy than conventional or minimally invasive surgery.

How is Robotic Surgery different from Laparoscopy or Endoscopy?

• Laparoscopy: Uses rigid instruments and small incisions, but movements are limited, and depth perception can be difficult.
• Endoscopy: Uses flexible instruments but can be affected by hand tremors, fatigue, and limited visibility.
• Robotic Surgery: Overcomes these limitations by providing flexible robotic arms, tremor-free precision, and high-resolution 3D imaging, all controlled by the surgeon from a console.

How is Robotic Surgery performed?

In most cases, the da Vinci Surgical System is used. Small incisions are made, and robotic arms with instruments and a camera are inserted. The surgeon operates from a nearby console, controlling the robotic arms with high precision while viewing a magnified 3D image of the surgical site.

What are the advantages of Robotic Surgery?

• Greater precision and flexibility compared to laparoscopy or endoscopy
• High-quality 3D imaging for better decision-making
• Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
• Less pain, bleeding, and tissue damage
• Lower risk of infections and complications
• Faster recovery and improved patient comfort

Is Robotic Surgery safe?

Yes. Robotic Surgery is considered very safe. The surgeon is always in full control of the robotic system, and the enhanced accuracy reduces the chances of complications.

Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Vadapalani & Radial Road), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.

Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 40504050 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011

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