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Robotics in Gynecology

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Minimally Invasive Gynecology

Abstract

Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) in April 2005, robotic-assisted surgery has become popular among both gynecologic surgeons and their patients. Despite its widespread use, the role of robotic surgery in benign gynecology remains controversial. The available literature on this topic is lacking in quality, and the studies that have been conducted are mostly inconclusive. Nonetheless, a few key attributes of robotic surgery that are difficult to refute, even for the robot “nonsupporters,” include the fact that robotic surgery offers:

  1. (a)

    A more ergonomic option for the surgeon when compared to conventional laparoscopy

  2. (b)

    A less morbid surgical alternative when compared to abdominal surgery

  3. (c)

    The option of minimally invasive surgery for a broader patient pool

For the purpose of this chapter, we will focus on the role of robotic surgery in benign gynecology. We will review the most recent and relevant peer-reviewed literature as we discuss the use of robotic laparoscopy for the surgical management of deeply infiltrating endometriosis, myomectomy, hysterectomy, and sacrocolpopexy/cervicopexy. We will include a brief description of our general setup for robotic procedures, and in our discussions of each of these topics, we will provide a basic case card and a corresponding video, if available.

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Change history

  • 02 September 2023

    A correction has been published.

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Advincula, A.P., Madueke-Laveaux, O.S. (2018). Robotics in Gynecology. In: Gomes-da-Silveira, G.G., da Silveira, G.P.G., Pessini, S.A. (eds) Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-72592-5_3

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