From UNC Health Pardee: Robotic surgery continues to be growing technology

Robotic surgery may sound like a futuristic concept, but it is a growing technology that is becoming a more popular choice among patients and surgeons. Thanks to its 3D camera and maneuverable instruments, it is an especially useful option when a procedure involves a tight, cramped and sometimes hard-to-access area.

UNC Health Pardee began offering robotic surgeries in July 2023, offering patients much less post-operative pain and shorter recovery time compared to an open procedure.

Investing in robotics

With the investment in robotic surgery, Pardee provides patients with the best surgical option possible, using the latest technology. Dr. John Kogoy, a general surgeon with Pardee Surgical Associates, recently surpassed performing 100 surgeries using the new technology.

He explains that the precision of the instruments, the extremely high-definition camera — enhancing the surgical field up to 10 times the magnification level — and the use of fluorescent dye which allows him to easily identify important vital structures and assess tissue perfusion all factor into letting him operate in an extremely elegant manner.

“Operating with the robot allows me to perform laparoscopic surgery in a way that is more natural and more like I am using my own hands, which is kind of funny because in this setting physically, I am more detached from the patient,” Dr. Kogoy said.

Firsthand testimony

Barbara Gittleman had been dealing with pain from an inguinal hernia, so excruciating it sent her to the emergency department. Understanding that she would need the hernia repaired,

Barbara thought open surgery was her only option. As someone who has had a very bad reaction to anesthesia in the past, she was nervous about surgery. She was hesitant but also relieved to learn Dr. Kogoy was able to address her issue with robotic surgery.

“This was the most pleasant experience, from the minute I got to the hospital, to the reception, everything was done with professionalism, kindness, care and efficiency,” Barbara said. “When I came home, it was the next day I was up and walking around and ready to take a ride in the car. I felt great.”

A gamechanger

The robot initially started out as a platform for procedures predominately in prostate surgery and gynecology but as the technology has improved, surgeons now have access to all quadrants of the abdomen and its use has become increasingly applicable in the field of general surgery.

“The robot is a great equalizer in that it allows us to operate on people of all shapes and sizes with the same degree of freedom,” Dr. Kogoy said.

Along with providing patients with a safer experience and higher quality of care, this robotic surgical system lowers the risk of infection, contributes to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery and reduces the potential for hospital readmissions.

In regards to recovery, Dr. Kogoy explained that while results may vary, generally if there is any discomfort, it's in the first couple of days and is less severe than other surgical approaches. He noted that many of his patients have been able to manage their pain with Ibuprofen or Tylenol.

“I think this works because the mechanical action of the robotic arms is less traumatic to the abdominal wall than conventional laparoscopic instruments and the precision of the instruments inside the body allows for less trauma to the tissue operated on, resulting in less blood loss and less pain,” he said.

Pardee is excited to offer robotic surgery as an option for patients who have qualifying procedures. To learn more about the technology or to find out if you’re a candidate for robotic surgery, visit pardeehospital.orghttps://pardeehospital.org.

This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: UNC Health Pardee: Robotic surgery continues to be growing technology