Robotic Heart Surgery

The field of cardiac surgery has seen many advancements with the development of modern technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). One such cutting edge procedure is Robotic Heart Surgery which may become an alternative in future to the traditional surgical approach.

Robotic Heart Surgery is a minimally invasive approach to heart surgery done with very small cuts in the chest. It involves the use of precision instruments and robot controlled tools in accessing the heart, without needing to make a large incision through the breastbone. This surgery is less invasive than open heart surgery.

How is Robotic Surgery done?

Robotic surgeries are done for various heart related procedures. These can include coronary artery bypass, valve surgery, heart defect repair, cardiac tissue ablation, tumour removal, etc.

During robotic surgery the surgeon makes keyhole sized incisions on the side of the chest aligning with the openings between the ribs. Precision guided robotic arms are inserted into these incisions. The robotic arms hold tiny instruments that perform the required tasks on the heart and surrounding arteries.

A tiny video camera provides the magnified 3D image of the operating site. The surgeon controls the robotic arms from a console. These robotic arms replicate the surgeon’s hand movements. After completion, the surgeon removes the instruments and closes the incisions.

After the Procedure

After the surgery the patient may need to stay in the ICU for a day or two. Fluids and medications are given intravenously. This will be followed by recovery in the regular hospital room for a few weeks.

The treatment team will regularly monitor the patient’s condition including breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. They will also provide advice on the medications to be taken, pain management and watching out for signs of any infection at the incision sites.

Benefits of Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery enables greater surgical precision and allows even the most difficult procedures to be performed efficiently. It also minimises the risk of possible post-surgical complications like scarring, infections and blood loss. Patients also need to stay for a shorter time in the hospital and can return to their regular activities much faster.