Surgical robots have been used to assist in surgery for several decades. Still, significant advances in technology in recent years have completely transformed the way surgeons perform surgery and how patients recover. At Celebration Obstetrics and Gynecology, Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery, John C. Kim, MD, FACOG, a board-certified OB-GYN physician with advanced fellowship training in endoscopic women’s pelvic surgery and robotic minimally invasive surgery, is leading the way in advanced surgical needs in women’s healthcare.

Dr. Kim specializes in laparoscopic and robotic-assisted gynecologic procedures for treating patients with symptomatic fibroids, urinary control issues, pelvic organ prolapse, bleeding and clotting issues, chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, and other disorders. Dr. Kim’s words, “I am most excited about the minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries. I can take extremely complicated surgeries, perform them minimally invasive and provide the patient with less recovery time. It is a win-win situation for both patient and provider.”

What is Robotic-Assisted Surgery?  

“Imagine having casts on your hands, attaching forks to the casts, and eating dinner while wearing goggles.  You will eventually get the job done, but it won’t be easy and will take more time to accomplish the task.  That is what performing laparoscopic surgery is like.  Now take those casts off and eat.  Eating is much easier because you can bend your wrists and fingers. This is robotic surgery.  The instruments are flexible and allow us to make more precise movements,” says Dr. Kim.

The robot translates your surgeon’s hands and has far greater dexterity than the surgeon’s range of motion.  This allows the surgery to be performed through a few small incisions and with precise movements during the surgery. The robotic console enhances the surgeon’s vision with high magnification and 3-D imagery to ensure a crystal-clear view during the procedure.

What are the Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Robotic surgery has so many benefits. During the surgery, you will have minimal blood loss. Smaller incisions and a less invasive surgery help with minimal scarring and scar tissue build-up. Due to the nature of minimally invasive surgery, you will also have less need for narcotic pain medications because there is less pain afterward. Typically, robotic surgeries have fewer complications than the other two types of surgery and shorter hospital stays. These factors all lead to a faster recovery time for the patient. 

If you need a surgical procedure, please schedule your appointment with Dr. Kim to discuss your options and learn more about minimally invasive surgery.  For more information on robotic-assisted surgery, please visit our website at www.celebrationobgyn.com or call us at (877) 800-0239.