Volume 16, Issue 3 , Pages 291-301, May 2009
Evolving Role and Current State of Robotics in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Abstract
Advancements in conventional laparoscopy afford gynecologists the ability to treat disease with minimally invasive interventions. Procedures such as hysterectomy are still performed predominantly via laparotomy. Instrumentation, complex disease, and steep learning curves are often cited as obstacles to minimally invasive surgery. The advent of robotic technology may provide a means to overcome the limitations of conventional laparoscopy through the use of 3-dimensional imaging and more dextrous and precise instruments. Current studies clearly demonstrate the feasibility and safety of applying robotics to the entire spectrum of gynecologic procedures. Rigorous scientific studies and long-term data are needed to determine the appropriate applications of robotics in gynecology. Numerous questions still exist pertaining to costs, credentialing and privileging, and training.
Keywords: Robotics, Laparoscopy, Computer-assisted surgery
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Financial Disclosure: Dr. Advincula is a consultant for Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, California.
The authors have no commercial, proprietary, or financial interest in the products or companies described in this article.
PII: S1553-4650(09)00121-6
doi:10.1016/j.jmig.2009.03.003
© 2009 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Volume 16, Issue 3 , Pages 291-301, May 2009
