Da Vinci technology is one of the most exciting advances in the
surgical treatment of kidney condition. Da Vinci technology employs
robotic arms to manipulate tiny surgical tools, effectively combining
laparoscopy with cutting edge robotic technology.
A urologist well
versed in da Vinci technology will be familiar with several procedures
which can be performed via da Vinci surgery. One example is the da Vinci pyeloplasty,
which uses robotic arms to remove blockage between the kidney and the
ureter so that urine can effectively drain from the kidney.
What to Expect During a da Vinci Pyeloplasty
In
a da Vinci pyeloplasty, your doctor controls robotic arms through a
nearby console. The console mimics the doctor’s arm and hand motions
precisely, allowing the doctor to handle tiny, flexible surgical tools
with great agility and control.
Robotic arms can extend and rotate
with even greater range than the doctor’s arms and hands, increasing
your doctor’s agility and allowing for more precise cutting. The da
Vinci system uses 3D high definition cameras which gives the doctor
clearer vision of the surgical site.During the procedure, your doctor will:
- Make small cuts along the abdomen to access the kidneys.
- Insert
an endoscope (a small thin tube with a lighted tip and a camera)
through one of the small incisions and specialized, wristed tools
through the other incisions to cut and remove any obstruction between
the kidney and the ureter.
- Widen and recreate the channel
between the kidney and the ureter using remaining renal and ureter
tissue. This will effectively recreate the channel and improve the
passage of urine into the ureter.
- If kidney stones are identified, they will also be removed.
- Finally,
your doctor will place a stent (small mesh tube) in the kidney to keep
the passage open while the site heals. The stent is removed about a
month after the procedure in the doctor’s office.
Advantages of da Vinci for Kidney Conditions
There are many advantages of da Vinci surgery over open or laparoscopic surgery.
Smaller
incisions mean less blood loss and pain, reduced healing time, and pain
medication. This means you will leave the hospital sooner after da
Vinci surgery. The da Vinci system uses 3D, high-definition video,
allows for more agile surgical manipulation, more precise and accurate
cutting, and a less tired surgeon. The use of robotics also cuts down on
doctor fatigue during the surgery.
The success of your surgery
will depend on your overall heath, the state of your illness, and your
doctor’s skill level. Discuss the possibility of using da Vinci surgery
with your doctor. Your doctor can determine if a da Vinci procedure
would help treat your kidney condition.
Learn more about da Vinci for Kidney Disorders (Pyeloplasty).