Robotic Surgery
OB/GYN Robotic Surgeon in San Antonio, TX
OB/GYN Dr. Vincenzo Sabella is a pioneer in robotic surgery, being the first OB/GYN robotic surgeon in the state of Texas in 2005 when the da Vinci robotic system was approved for gynecology by the FDA. He also routinely performs gynecological surgical procedures not commonly performed by other doctors in the San Antonio area.
What Is the da Vinci Surgical System?
The da Vinci® Surgical System is a less-invasive treatment option for a range of uterine conditions. It enables surgeons to perform procedures with unmatched precision and control – using only a few small incisions and a high-definition, 3-D camera. This sophisticated system expands a surgeon’s capabilities while offering a minimally invasive option for complex major surgeries.
The term “robotic surgery” can give the impression that the robot (the da Vinci Surgical System) is performing the surgery. This is far from the case.
The da Vinci Surgical System does not and cannot operate on its own. Rather, it seamlessly replicates the surgeon’s hand movements with the tips of miniaturized surgical instruments. The system cannot make decisions during the procedure. Nor does it make any type of movement or maneuver without the surgeon’s direction.
What the da Vinci system does is to eliminate the natural slight “shake” or jitter of human hands, and it is absolutely precise and steady. It also ensures total microscopic accuracy.
How Does Robotic Surgery Work?
The machines used in robotic surgery are designed to perform controlled movements as directed by the surgeon who is manipulating it. The da Vinci Surgical System is computer-enhanced equipment that essentially places a computer between the surgeon’s hands and the tips of tiny instruments. The robotic system replicates the surgeon’s movements in real time.
During the procedure, the surgeon is seated at a console a few feet away from the patient. From there, the doctor can view a detailed image of the surgical site while operating with complete precision.
The system relays a certain amount of force feedback sensations back to the surgeon throughout the procedure, for a tactile experience like regular surgery. This is the same type of technology as that used in computerized virtual reality.
What Can Robotic Surgery Be Used For?
The da Vinci Surgical System has been used to perform a wide variety of gynecological surgeries, including:
- Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
- Treatment for endometriosis, scar tissue, or general pelvic pain
- Endometrial cancer (a type of uterine cancer)
- Treatment for heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding
- Removal of uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cysts or tumors
- Surgery for cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers
- Treatment of urinary incontinence
- Placement of cerclages for recurring pregnancy loss
- Uterine or bladder prolapse
What Are the Benefits of Robotic Surgery?
Patient benefits of robotic-assisted surgery (as compared to traditional surgery or other types of surgery) include:
- Faster postsurgical return to normal daily activities
- Significantly less pain
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Fewer complications
- Less scarring
- Shorter hospital stays
Robotic Surgery FAQs
At the medical office of Vincenzo Sabella, we often get questions about robotic-assisted surgery. We’ve collected some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers in the hope it may answer a question you have.
Because the da Vinci Surgical System is categorized as robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery, insurance plans (including Medicare) that cover minimally invasive surgery generally do cover this procedure. Your insurance coverage will depend on your particular plan.
If you have been denied coverage, please call the da Vinci Surgical System Reimbursement Hotline at (888) 868-4647, ext. 3128. From outside the United States, please call 33-1-39-04-26-90.
Surgeons who use robotic-assisted minimally invasive methods such as the da Vinci Surgical System gain greater surgical precision, improved dexterity and range of motion while operating, enhanced visualization of the surgical site, and improved access than with traditional, open surgeries.
Benefits experienced by patients include a shorter hospital stay, less blood loss during surgery, less pain after surgery, less scarring, a lowered risk of infection, and a faster return to normal daily activities.
That said, none of the benefits listed here can be guaranteed, because every surgery is patient- and procedure-specific.
Yes, da Vinci surgery has been cleared by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for use in treating a wide range of procedures.
Not at all. The da Vinci Surgical System cannot make decisions on its own or maneuver in any way without the surgeon’s direct input. By replicating the surgeon’s movements in real time, it allows the surgeon to be more precise, enhancing their surgical capabilities – and improving patient outcomes.
The product is called "da Vinci" because Leonardo da Vinci conceptualized a humanoid robot, and he also used 3-D details for anatomical accuracy to bring his masterpieces to life.
Dr. Sabella has a contract to teach da Vinci Surgery to other surgeons with Intuitive Surgical, the makers of the da Vinci system.
Why not find out if you might benefit from a robotic-assisted surgical procedure? Call Dr. Vincenzo Sabella’s office at (210) 614-1000 now for more information. Or use our convenient and secure appointment request form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sabella.
