Traditional vs. Robotic Cholecystectomy
A cholecystectomy may be recommended for a patient who is diagnosed with gallbladder cancer. This procedure, which involves the removal of the entire gallbladder, may be appropriate as an initial form of treatment if the cancer is localized. Alternatively, a cholecystectomy can be used to relieve pain at the site of the original tumor if the cancer has spread.
Many people who require a cholecystectomy are candidates for robotic surgery. At Moffitt Cancer Center, the fellowship-trained surgeons in our Gastrointestinal Oncology Program are experienced in using the da Vinci® Surgical System to perform robotic laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures for gallbladder removal. Unlike open cholecystectomy procedures, which typically require a long incision in the abdomen, and traditional laparoscopic surgeries, which usually require three to four small incisions which serve as access ports to the surgical site, the da Vinci System makes it possible for a surgeon to remove a gallbladder through one small incision at the belly button.
When performing a minimally invasive cholecystectomy with the assistance of the da Vinci System, a surgeon is seated at an ergonomically designed console. There, the surgeon can view high-definition, three-dimensional images while using controls to precisely move robotic arms that have surgical instruments attached. The da Vinci System translates the surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements into highly accurate, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient’s body.
As compared to traditional surgical techniques, some potential benefits of robotic laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures include:
- A reduced risk of surgical complications
- Less pain
- A shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery
- Minimal scarring
While the da Vinci System uses leading-edge technology, it is the skill level of the surgeon seated behind the console that can make a true difference in a patient’s outcome. Moffitt’s surgeons have acquired extensive expertise in using the da Vinci System to perform robotic cholecystectomies and other procedures, and this translates directly to better outcomes and quality of life for our patients.
If you’d like more information about traditional or robotic cholecystectomy surgery for gallbladder cancer treatment, call Moffitt Cancer Center at 1-888-663-3488 or complete a new patient registration form online. We accept patients with and without referrals.