What is Robotic Obesity Surgery? To Whom Can It Be Applied?

It is an effective tool to help people with obesity problems who cannot lose weight through diet or other traditional methods. Obesity surgical procedures, also called bariatric surgery, have evolved in recent years. Weight loss surgery options have increased, from traditional open procedures to minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. The last option for obesity surgery is robotic surgery. Robotic surgery uses new technology to perform operations through smaller incisions. The surgeon sits at a console in the same room as the patient and controls the robot’s arms to perform the operation. The robot has 3D cameras that provide the surgeon with a very clear view.

What is Robotic Obesity Surgery?

Robotic-assisted bariatric surgery represents a cutting-edge approach to weight loss surgery that uses robotic technology to increase the precision of procedures designed to treat severe obesity. This approach combines the expertise of skilled surgeons with the accuracy and dexterity of robotic systems to deliver a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment. One of the biggest advantages of robotic-assisted bariatric surgery is its minimally invasive nature. This reduces trauma to the patient’s body, allowing for a faster recovery time. Smaller incisions also lead to less scarring, which is especially important for patients who are concerned about their appearance. Robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s capabilities by providing a fixed, magnified view of the surgical site. It also reduces the possibility of errors and complications.

How is Robotic Surgery Applied in Obesity Treatment?

In robotic-assisted bariatric surgery, the surgeon operates a robotic system consisting of special surgical instruments and a high-resolution camera. These instruments are inserted through small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. It allows the surgeon to perform the procedure with accuracy and exceptional control. The surgeon controls the robotic system from a console that provides a 3D view of the surgical field, allowing for a more detailed and precise operation.

In Which Procedures Is Robotic Obesity Surgery Used?

Robotic obesity surgery stands out as one of the latest technologies in the treatment of morbid obesity. This surgical method allows complex bariatric procedures to be performed with higher accuracy, with the advantages of robotic systems such as precision, shorter recovery time and better patient outcomes. Robotic systems, especially the Da Vinci Surgical System, have an important place in the fight against obesity. These systems are widely used in various bariatric procedures to achieve weight loss in patients. The following procedures are some of the most frequently preferred procedures in robotic obesity surgery:

Robotic Gastric Bypass Surgery

It is one of the widely applied robotic-assisted bariatric procedures. In this surgical procedure, a small part of the stomach is separated by a pouch and connected directly to the small intestine. Thus, a large part of the stomach and part of the small intestine are bypassed. Robotic systems enable the surgeon to make more precise incisions and perform anastomoses. This reduces the risk of complications and speeds up the healing process.

Robotic Sleeve Stomach Surgery

Robotic surgery is another procedure commonly used in the treatment of obesity. In this procedure, approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed. A narrow, tube-shaped structure is left behind. The increased flexibility offered by robotic systems enables precise separation and stapling of tissues. This minimizes the risk of bleeding and leakage. Gastric sleeve surgery has become a popular choice among bariatric surgeons and patients alike due to its simplicity and effectiveness in achieving weight loss.

Robotic Adjustable Gastric Band

Robotic adjustable gastric banding, although less common than other procedures, is still used in certain situations. This procedure involves placing an adjustable band over the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. This encourages weight loss by limiting food intake. The robotic surgical approach provides a great advantage in terms of precise placement and adjustment of the band. Although gastric banding is a less invasive method, it is less preferred than other robotic bariatric surgeries because it requires patient commitment and regular follow-up in the long term.

Robotic Duodenal Switch Surgery

It is one of the most complex and technically challenging bariatric procedures. This procedure combines gastric sleeve surgery with a large intestinal bypass. This provides significant weight loss. The ability of robotic systems to manipulate tissues with high precision facilitates careful handling of the extensive anastomoses and digestive tract in this procedure. Duodenal switch is generally recommended for patients with the highest body mass index (BMI) or those who have not achieved the results they desire from other bariatric procedures.

Revisional Robotic Bariatric Surgery

Robotic systems are also used in revisional bariatric surgeries. Revisional surgeries are procedures performed to correct or replace previous weight loss surgeries. These types of surgeries are often more complicated due to scar tissue and altered anatomy. Therefore, the precision and flexibility offered by robotic surgery helps perform these delicate operations more safely and effectively. Procedures such as converting a gastric band into a sleeve gastrectomy or eliminating complications arising from a previous surgery become more successful with the advantages of robotic surgery.

To Whom Can Robotic Surgery Be Applied in Obesity Treatment?

Robotic surgery in the treatment of obesity stands out as a powerful treatment option, especially for patients suffering from morbid obesity and serious health problems related to this condition. Robotic surgery; It attracts attention as a method that increases sensitivity, reduces the risk of complications and provides a faster recovery time. However, not every obesity patient may be a suitable candidate for this method. People to whom robotic surgery can be applied are selected according to certain criteria, and making this selection carefully is extremely important for the success of the treatment.

Patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) Over 40

Robotic surgery is generally recommended for patients with a body mass index (BMI) over 40, that is, diagnosed with morbid obesity. These patients do not respond to diet, exercise and other weight loss methods. Morbid obesity often brings with it many health problems. For patients in this situation, surgical intervention is an effective method to achieve weight loss and improve their health.

Patients with BMI between 35-40 and Additional Health Problems

Patients with a BMI value between 35-40 and serious health problems due to obesity are also suitable candidates for robotic surgery. These health problems may include conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea and heart disease. These patients may require surgical intervention to manage and improve additional health problems. Robotic surgery offers these patients an effective and safe treatment.

Patients Who Have Previously Had Unsuccessful Bariatric Surgery

Patients who have previously undergone bariatric surgery but did not achieve the desired results or experienced complications may be candidates for revisional surgery. Revisional robotic surgery can be applied to correct previous procedures or provide a more effective treatment. Such surgeries can be complex, and the precision offered by robotic systems provides a significant advantage in these situations.

What are the Advantages of Robotic Surgery in Obesity Treatment?

Robotic surgery has some advantages in the treatment of obesity. The most important benefit is that the robot increases depth perception with its binocular vision. This provides the surgeon with a sharp 3D view. In addition, the advantages of robotic surgery can be listed as follows:

• Smaller incisions: With an incision of approximately 8 mm, robotic surgery leaves less visible scarring and reduces the risk of infection.
• Wider range of motion: Robots have “wrists”. These devices provide a greater range of motion than laparoscopic equipment that has a claw grip.
• Better ergonomics: The robot allows the surgeon to sit at a console within easy reach of the controls. This prevents the physician from arm or leg fatigue. It offers more precise positioning during the one to three hour procedure.
• Shorter hospital stays and recovery times: This minimally invasive approach often means spending less time in the hospital, less pain, and patients returning to work quicker.