Robotic lobectomy is one of the most modern and effective techniques in thoracic surgery, offering significant advantages over traditional methods. This method is minimally invasive and allows greater precision during surgery, reducing recovery time and complications for patients. In this article, we'll look at what robotic lobectomy is, how it's performed, and what its benefits are.

What Is Robotic Lobectomy?

Robotic lobectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove a lobe or more of the lung through a minimally invasive technique with the help of a robotic system. This method is mainly applied for the treatment of lung cancer but also for other lung diseases that require lobe removal.

Indications for Robotic Lobectomy

Robotic lobectomy is used to treat various lung conditions, including:

– Lung cancer: It is the primary indication for robotic lobectomy.

– Benign tumors: For the removal of non-cancerous lung tumors.

– Infections and abscess: In cases of severe infections or abscesses that do not respond to conservative treatments.

– Complicated Bronchiogenic Cysts: When the cysts are causing symptoms or are at risk of becoming infected or have damaged the lung.

How is Robotic Lobectomy Performed?

1. Preparation for the Intervention:

– Medical examination: The patient undergoes a detailed medical examination to determine whether he is suitable for robotic lobectomy.

– Anesthesia: The operation is performed under general anesthesia.

2. Procedure:

– Small incisions: Small 8mm incisions are made in the chest to insert the robotic arms and the thoracoscope.

– Use of a robotic system: The surgeon controls the robotic arms from a console, ensuring precise movements and excellent visual contact with the surgical field.

– Lobe removal: The surgeon removes the affected lung lobe with great precision.

– Closure of incisions: Incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape.

3. After the Intervention:

– Hospital stay: The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for observation.

– Recovery: Full recovery takes a few weeks, during which the patient must follow the doctor's instructions with the main restriction being to avoid weight lifting in order not to create positive intrathoracic pressures for one month postoperatively.

Benefits of Robotic Lobectomy

– Accuracy: Robotic technology enables precise and detailed movements, reducing the risk of complications.

– Minimal intervention: Small incisions mean less pain and faster recovery for the patient.

– Excellent eye contact: The surgeon has a three-dimensional and magnified image of the surgical field, which improves the efficiency of the operation.

– Reduced risk of complications: The minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery reduces the risk of infection and other complications.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgery, robotic lobectomy carries risks with much lower percentages than open access. This has the advantage of a better quality of life and of course fewer final complications which would not allow us to continue the patient's possible subsequent treatments, eg chemotherapy, immunotherapy, etc.

Conclusion

Robotic lobectomy is a revolutionary approach to thoracic surgery, offering significant advantages for patients with lung diseases. With the precision and advantages of robotic technology, patients can benefit from a minimally invasive procedure with fewer complications and a faster recovery.

For more information and personalized advice, make an appointment with our thoracic surgery practice. We are here to help you find the best solution for your health and wellness.