Robotic thoracic surgery – RATS (Robotic Assisted Thoracic Surgery) is the part of minimally invasive thoracic surgery that is now done with the help of a robotic system. It's about Da Vinci X integrated system, which currently has 2 clinics across the country for Thoracic Surgery. Such a system, of course, also requires absolute expertise from the thoracic surgeon who operates it. Dr. Michalis Klimatsidas he specialized in robotic thoracic surgery during his time in the UK and Greece.

Integrated Da Vinci System (image) X

→ The arms are the ones that move various tools through small incisions (holes) in the patient's chest. In the middle we have the control center, the console of this computer, and on the right is the console where the thoracic surgeon sits, who controls all the tools we mentioned.

→ Robotic thoracic surgery is done with the help of the robot but not by the robot. Done by the thoracic surgeon, it requires expertise and a large support team. In addition to the surgeon at the console, there are surgeons with the patient to be there for any need that may arise.

→ The surgeon sees through the console in three dimensions - essentially he feels as if he is inside the patient - and in his hands he has operators that work with extreme precision. 

Advantages of robotic thoracic surgery over older methods

• 3D vision   Although it can be achieved by other means, the technology in the Da Vinci system is such that it allows for absolute detail. The surgeon really feels like he is inside the patient.

• Shock (tremor) absorption technologyit has mechanisms that absorb the surgical tremors, that is, it has mechanisms with which the procedure can be stopped at any time, if this is deemed necessary 

• Microsurgery – special tools  The special feature of robotic thoracic surgery is that the tools have the ability to rotate 360 degrees of mobility which of course is much less than the human hand's capabilities 

• Better lymph node cleansing  The lymph nodes of the Mediastinum, as they are called, are located in the center of the chest next to very important organs such as the heart, esophagus, trachea, pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, etc. The advanced technology of the robot enables us to thoroughly and precisely clean the lymph nodes. in movements, three-dimensional vision, etc., something very important for the survival of patients with lung cancer as the patient is better staged as well as more and more scientific works point out the importance of good lymph node cleansing in survival.

• Better surgeries It magnifies the structures and gives us an excellent possibility to operate for many hours relatively comfortably, as the surgeon is now seated. In the event of a painful but also long-hour operation, the Da Vinci system enables the surgeon to perform the operation in a relaxed and safer manner.

  ⇒ Robotics mall minimally invasive thoracic surgery procedures can be performed. However, our big battle is with lung cancer, where the surgeries performed involve anatomical resections of lung parenchyma.  

♦ This technology is extremely advanced and completely safe. It is carried out by specialized centers and surgeons as it is the nature of the specialty is such that it requires absolute specialization. One must, however, have experience in the full spectrum of thoracic surgery, including open thoracic surgery.

♦ It is a promising technology, although in the literature there is less mention, always in relation to the cases of open thoracic surgery and minimally invasive thoracic surgery, due to the fact that it is a very recent technology. More and more research is currently being done to determine the greatest value of robotics with the Da Vinci System and patient survival and quality of life.  

From our side, we aim to create a relationship of mutual understanding and honest communication with the patient. Before any decision, we always make sure to thoroughly discuss with patients the treatment options, the specific risks and the procedures that will be followed.

For more information and clarifications or to schedule an appointment, you can contact Dr. Michalis Klimatsidas by calling (+030) 6944562928 or by filling out the relevant form.