What is robotic surgery?
Robotic surgery is a form of laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery. Small (approximately 1 cm) 
incisions are used instead of a traditional larger incision. The surgeon uses very small instruments though those incisions in order to accomplish the same procedures typically requiring very large incisions. Robotic controls allow the surgeon to mimic his own hand movements with these very small instruments, making the surgery as precise and thorough as if it was performed by traditional methods. The da Vinci robot’s camera uses high-definition 3-D technology that gives the operating surgeon a perfect view for the procedure.
Dr. Traub still performs the entire surgery. However, he controls all the miniature instruments and the camera from a surgeon console (master controller) located in the operating room adjacent to the patient. This allows the simultaneous use of multiple instruments by a single, skilled surgeon. Compared to traditional laparoscopy, the surgeon has better instrumentation, more precise movements, and optimal visualization.
As a results of these technical advantages, the patient benefits in many ways:
- Less scar tissue formed from surgery due to more precise control
- Quick recovery – usually 3-7 days
- Same day surgery – patients can drive and resume normal activity the next day
- Less blood loss
- Removal of fibroids that would otherwise require a large incision
- Optimal visualization and removal of endometriosis
- More precise repair of fallopian tubes
- Removal of ovarian cysts with optimal preservation of normal ovarian tissue
Dr. Traub performs robotic surgery at Staten Island University Hospital, Richmond University Medical Center and JFK hospital.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR ROBOTIC SURGERY?
Most patients are candidate for robotic assisted surgery. Surgery is typically performed for fibroids, endometriosis, and tubal surgery. Your medical and surgical history must be considered prior to determining the best surgical approach. Dr. Traub will plan out your optimal surgery and discuss with you whether you may benefit from robotic surgery.
da Vinci ® Myomectomy
A myomectomy refers to the removal of fibroids. Some fibroids can be removed through the vaginal in a procedure called hysteroscopic myomectomy. Most fibroids require an abdominal (through the belly) approach. Traditional myomectomies require a large incision on the belly, a 2-3 day hospital stay, and 4-6 weeks recovery after surgery. It is important to remove the fibroids and repair the uterus appropriately to reduce any risk of scarring in the belly, scarring in the uterus, and to ensure that the uterus is as strong as possible for pregnancy.
da Vinci ® Myomectomy allows a combination of the precise surgical technique of open laparotomy and the minimally invasive approach of laparoscopic surgery. Fibroids in almost any location can be removed and repaired with robotic assistance. Pre-operative assessment with ultrasound and sometimes MRI imaging is helpful to determine the size, location, and number of fibroids you have. Almost all women who undergo da Vinci ® Myomectomy go home from the hospital the same day.
All surgeries have risks and the da Vinci ® Myomectomy has risks as well. Not all patients are good candidates for this procedure. Dr. Traub will discuss your particular case with you and allow you to choose the best surgical approach.