Common Questions & Answers
Why is the robotic system called da Vinci?
The da Vinci® System for robotic-assisted surgeries is manufactured by Intuitive Surgical. It has been named after Leonardo da Vinci for his invention of the first robot and creation of masterpieces with unparalled anatomical accuracy.
Does a robot actually perform surgery?
No! The da Vinci robotic surgical system is controlled by a surgeon at all times. A three-dimensional camera on the system provides surgeons with enhanced vision, depth and clarity of the surgical site. The surgeon's console, located near the operating table, transmits real time, true-to-life images from a camera mounted on one of the da Vinci robotic arms. Movement of the controls by the surgeon translates into movement of the robotic arms, which are used to perform the operation through tiny incisions necessary for traditional open surgeries. The system cannot be programmed to make decisions on its own.
Besides Regions Hospital, where else is the robotic system being used?
The da Vinci robotic system is being used at approximately 450 hospitals across the U.S. and abroad. To date, tens of thousands of procedures have been performed using the robotic system.
Has the da Vinci Surgical system been FDA approved?
Yes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the da Vinci system for a wide range of gynecological, cardiac, and urological procedures.
How soon after undergoing robotic-assisted surgery can I resume most normal activities?
Each patient recovers differently. Depending on the circumstances of the patient, and the procedure being performed, many people are able to return to most normal daily living activities within a two-week period.
How do I know if I am a candidate for robotic-assisted surgery?
For treatment of prostate cancer and other urological procedures contact our urology surgeons at 651-254-8500 to discuss your options. For hysterectomy and other gynecologic conditions, please contact our OB/Gyn Surgery group at 651-293-8297. All potential patients undergo a comprehensive pre-surgery screening to determine eligibility for robotic-assisted surgery. A patient's eligibility is based on several factors - the most important being a good medical history and a capability to withstand the surgery. As each patient's needs and medical history is very different, our staff will weigh with you all the pros and cons associated with traditional vs. robotic-assisted surgery to help you decide what is best for you. Although the robotic system has other surgical capabilities, at this time Regions Hospital is utilizing it for urological and gynecological procedures.
Can my normal doctor use this technology or do I need to go to a specific surgeon?
Surgeons must go through detailed, advanced-level training to perform procedures with the robotic system. Regions Hospital currently has four surgeons, Drs. Goya Raikar, Parker Eberwein, Cesar Ercole and Leslie Sharpe trained to use the robotic-assisted system.
Does my insurance cover robotic-assisted surgery?
The majority of health and insurance plans pay for robotic-assisted surgery as they would traditional surgery methods; please consult your insurance plan to confirm your coverage.
More Information
Learn more about urology/prostate cancer procedures
or call us at 651-254-8500.
Learn more about hysterectomy and other gynecologic procedures
or call us at 651-293-8297 and ask for Wendy or Kathy.
To learn more about Regions Hospital da Vinci® robotic system, go to
davincisurgery.com.
