About Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery is minimally invasive. A surgeon with special training controls a robotic system to perform precise, controlled movements. Huntsman Cancer Institute uses a robot called the Intuitive da Vinci庐 Surgical System. Inside the body, the machine imitates the surgeon鈥檚 hand and wrist movements. These movements control very small surgical tools and make tiny incisions, instead of one large cut used in traditional approaches.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery improves patient outcomes, reduces the risk of complications, and also offers these additional benefits:
- Smaller incisions
- Shorter recovery times
- Less pain and scarring
- Fewer complications
- Quicker surgery
- Less time under anesthesia
Learn more about how robotic surgery has improved patient outcomes.
鈥淭he [robotic] surgery was a success, just a few minor incisions. I was up and moving around that evening, pain-free, and discharged within 24 hours.鈥
Jeanette Nielsen, Patient at Huntsman Cancer Institute
Why Choose Huntsman Cancer Institute?
The expert surgeons at Huntsman Cancer Institute are national leaders in robotic techniques. Our team uses the latest technologies to improve patient outcomes. We are proud to offer robotic surgery as a safe and effective approach to cancer treatment.
Since introducing robotic surgery in 2005, our surgeons have performed more than 10,000 robotic-assisted procedures, with numbers growing exponentially. We were the first cancer center in the Mountain West to offer single-port robotic surgery in 2024 and have expanded our robotics program to include the da Vinci 5 system, making our center the first in Utah to offer the da Vinci 5 to patients.
We plan to continue expanding our robotic surgery program by acquiring additional systems, training more surgeons, and hiring specialists in robotic procedures.
Robotic Surgery Training Program
As part of our efforts to expand the robotic surgery program and ensure surgeons have the necessary knowledge to use the equipment, we have developed a robotic surgery training program
This training program is used at many cancer centers across the country and is required for all surgeons who practice robotic surgery at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
Find a Robotic Surgeon
鈥淲e are at the epicenter of robotic surgery...Our surgeons are not only performing these procedures but also teaching other doctors at cancer centers around the country how to use this technology.鈥
Brian Mitzman, MD, MS, FACS, FCCP, Robotic Surgeon at Huntsman Cancer Institute
Meet the Machines
Our dedicated team will match you with the robotic surgical system best suited to your specific procedure and medical needs. Each surgical system is designed to ensure you receive the highest quality care, regardless of the model. Our team will determine the right approach for your unique situation, prioritizing your welfare.
Our robotics program includes nine systems:
- Da Vinci Surgical System
- Da Vinci Xi System*
- Da Vinci 5 Surgical System
- ION Robotic Navigation Bronchoscopy System
*Available through 麻豆学生精品版
Da Vinci Surgery System
The da Vinci Surgical System is considered the standard of care for robotic surgery systems. It is highly effective for straightforward procedures, like removals of small tumors in accessible areas, delivering excellent patient outcomes.
Da Vinci 5 Surgical System
The newest innovation in the da Vinci surgery systems, the da Vinci 5 incorporates the latest advancements in technology, such as enhanced visualization, greater precision, and expanded capabilities for complex surgeries. It is used for especially delicate procedures to minimize risk to surrounding organs and tissues.
Single-Port Surgical System
The Single-Port Surgical System is especially helpful for minimizing scarring from surgery. The system users one entry point that all the instruments go in through. Learn more about the single-port robot.
How Does Robotic Surgery Work?
- 1. Preparing for Surgery
- 2. Positioning and Setup
- 3. Surgeon鈥檚 Role
- 4. Safety and Monitoring
- 5. Completing the Procedure
- 6. Recovery
1. Preparing for Surgery
On the day of your procedure, you鈥檒l meet your team. They鈥檒l review the process with you, answer any last-minute questions, and ensure you鈥檙e comfortable. Once ready, you鈥檒l be placed under anesthesia so you鈥檒l remain asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Positioning and Setup
After you鈥檙e asleep, the team carefully positions you and sets up the robotic system. The robotic arms are equipped with tiny instruments and a high-definition camera, and the system is customized for your specific procedure. Rest assured, your surgeon remains in complete control of the robot at all times.
3. Surgeon鈥檚 Role
Your surgeon operates the system from a nearby console, using hand and foot controls to guide the robotic arms with incredible precision. Thanks to a high-definition, 3D camera, your surgeon sees a magnified, detailed view of the surgical area. This enhanced view helps ensure every step of the procedure is performed with the utmost care and accuracy.
4. Safety and Monitoring
Throughout the surgery, your entire care team continuously monitors your vital signs and ensures your safety. The robot is an advanced tool, but it鈥檚 your surgical team who makes every critical decision and adjustment.
5. Completing the Procedure
Once the surgery is finished, the robotic instruments are carefully removed, and your small incisions are closed. These incisions often heal more quickly than larger cuts from traditional surgery, leading to faster recovery.
6. Recovery
After surgery, you鈥檒l wake up in a recovery area, where nurses monitor you and manage your comfort. Most robotic surgeries allow for shorter hospital stays and quicker returns to daily life, thanks to their minimally invasive nature.
鈥淚 went home the next day with no limitations. The recovery was a breeze compared to what other people have told me about traditional surgeries. I didn鈥檛 need any pain medication after being discharged, and my breathing is completely normal.鈥
Denise Dailey, Patient at Huntsman Cancer Institute
