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Synopsis

Robotic pancreas surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is designed to cause less postoperative trauma and hasten recovery. It is considered the top option for complex pancreas surgery, where precision is important. It treats conditions like pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and other disorders of the pancreas or bile duct.

Introduction

Robotic pancreas surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses advanced robot arms to perform complex pancreatic procedures. This procedure is a lot more advantageous than traditional open surgery, as it leads to less blood loss, reduces the need for blood transfusion, and lowers the risk of complications.

 

This procedure has many benefits, like reduced pain and less scarring. It is considered the top option in certain cases, offering both curing potential and optimal recovery outcomes. Choose Gleneagles Hospitals to ensure the best result for your Robotic pancreas surgery in Mumbai. 

What is Robotic Pancreatic Surgery?

Robotic pancreatic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is performed using a robotic device to remove tumours and treat pancreatic cancers. It is an alternative to complex traditional surgery, which involves large incisions.

 

Robotic pancreatic surgery is performed to treat conditions that require removal or repair of the pancreas. It comprehensively treats pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and other disorders of the pancreas or bile duct. 

 

It is important to remember that not all patients are suitable candidates for robotic pancreatic surgery. According to experts from Gleneagles Hospitals, individuals who have had many prior operations and have a significant number of nearby blood vessels may need traditional open surgery. 

What is Robotic Pancreatic Surgery?

Types of Robotic Pancreas Surgery

There are several types of robotic pancreatic surgery, each of which is designed to tackle different challenges and complexities in the pancreas.

 

  • Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Also known as the Whipple procedure, it is used to treat cancer in the pancreas and nearby organs.
  • Robotic Distal Pancreatectomy: It is a minimally invasive robotic surgery that removes the distal part of the pancreas. It is used to treat pancreatic cancer and other conditions like benign tumours.
  • Robotic Central Pancreatectomy: It is a robotic surgical procedure that is primarily used to treat benign or low-grade tumours in the pancreatic neck.
  • Robotic Pancreatic Biopsy: This procedure leverages robotic surgery to perform biopsies on pancreatic tissues to stage pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours.
  • Robotic Drainage Procedures: This advanced robotic surgery procedure can be used to clear pancreatic duct obstructions caused by chronic pancreatitis.
  • Robotic Islet Cell Transplantation: This is a surgical procedure that is used to assist in the transplantation of pancreatic islet cells. The robotic procedure minimises damage and improves the success rate of the transplant.

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Why Choose Robotic Pancreatic Surgery?

Robotic pancreatic surgery is less invasive than traditional open surgery. By leveraging advanced technology, robotic pancreatic surgery can overcome the boundaries of traditional surgery. It leads to lesser pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, and less postoperative trauma. It lowers the risk of infections and other complications as well. Robotic pancreatic surgery is recommended in complex cases of pancreatic tumours and cancer. Here are some common cases where this procedure is needed:

 

  • Pancreatic Cancer: Robotic surgeries are essential for treating cancer in the pancreas and the bile duct.
  • Pancreatic Cysts: Robotic surgery removes cysts from the head of the pancreas.
  • Benign Tumours: Robotic pancreatic surgery makes precise motions to remove tumours. 

Preparation for Robotic Pancreatic Surgery

Before undergoing robotic pancreatic surgery, a patient must go through a series of evaluations and tests to ensure fitness for the procedure.

 

1. Preoperative Evaluation

 

  • Medical History: Your doctor will see your medical history and current medication.
  • Imaging Tests: Imaging tests might be recommended to assess the pancreas.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests will be recommended to check the liver function, kidney function, and overall health of a patient.
  • Cardiac & Pulmonary Evaluation: If you have a cardiac problem history, tests like an ECG or pulmonary function tests might be performed.

 

2. Lifestyle Adjustments

 

  • Smoking & Alcohol Cessation: Stop smoking and alcohol consumption to avoid unnecessary complications.
  • Healthy Diet: Consume a nutrient-rich diet to build strength and resilience.

 

3. Medication Management

 

  • Adjust Blood Thinners: If you take anticoagulants, your doctor might advise you to stop them before the surgery.
  • Diabetes Medications: If you are diabetic, adjustments in diabetes medication are needed before the surgery.
  • Preoperative Antibiotics: Your doctor might provide preoperative antibiotics to prevent infections.

 

4. Mental & Emotional Preparation

 

  • Understand the Procedure: Learn in detail about the robot-assisted approach and what you should expect after the surgery.
  • Arrange for Postoperative Care: Make sure you have someone to assist you at home while you recover from the operation. 

Robotic Pancreas Surgery Procedure

Robotic pancreatic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is used in conditions like pancreatic tumours, cysts, chronic pancreatitis, or pancreatic resections. Here is a brief overview of the robotic pancreas surgery procedure steps:

 

1. Preoperative Preparation: The patient is placed under general anaesthesia and an endotracheal tube is placed for ventilation.

 

2. Main Surgical Procedure (Depends on Type of Surgery)

 

  • Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple Procedure): Used for malignant tumours or cancer in the pancreatic head. The surgeon removes part of the pancreas, duodenum, gallbladder, and bile duct and reconstructs the digestive tract.
  • Robotic Distal Pancreatectomy: Used for pancreatic tail or body tumours. The tail or part of the body of the pancreas is removed.
  • Robotic Total Pancreatectomy: This surgery is performed in extreme cases of pancreatic disease or tumours. It requires complete removal of the pancreas, gallbladder, part of the stomach, and duodenum.
  • Robotic Pancreatic Cyst or Tumour Removal: The tumour is carefully dissected without hampering surrounding pancreatic tissues.

 

3. Closure & Recovery: Haemostasis, or bleeding control, is ensured, and robotic instruments and trocars are removed. The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue. The patient is then taken to the recovery room for monitoring.

 

4. Postoperative Care & Recovery: The hospital stay for robotic pancreatic surgery is 3–7 days, depending on the procedure. The pain management is given intravenously at first and then orally. 

Recovery and Aftercare

After robotic pancreatic surgery, you might have to stay at the hospital for 3–7 days depending on the procedure. Be watchful for signs of infection like redness, pus, or itching. Eat a low-fat and high-protein diet for faster healing.

 

Take pain relievers, blood thinners, and pancreatic enzyme supplements as necessary. Avoid heavy lifting or any strenuous activities. Do regular check-ups and screening tests to monitor healing. 

Risk and Complications after Robotic Pancreatic Surgery

Although robotic pancreatic surgery is much safer than traditional open surgery, there can still be certain complications that include infections, pancreatic leaks, delayed gastric emptying, and bleeding. 

 

  • Infections: It is the most common complication and can happen at the surgical site or in the urinary tract.
  • Pancreatic Fistula: It is a common complication that leads to potential abscess formation.
  • Bleeding: Postoperative haemorrhage is a critical risk that requires careful monitoring and medical attention.
  • Delayed Gastric Emptying: It affects digestion in the postoperative period and can be managed with supportive care.
  • Long-term Morbidity: Long-term issues like pancreatic insufficiency or diabetes mellitus post-pancreatectomy can arise from this procedure. 

Why Choose Gleneagles Hospitals for Robotic Pancreatic Surgery?

Gleneagles Hospitals is a leading name in advanced robotic surgeries for complex pancreatic procedures. Our highly skilled surgeons work for comprehensive care. Equipped with the latest Da Vinci Surgical System and high-definition 3D imaging, we offer precision and successful results at each step.

 

  • Expert Surgeons: Our highly expert surgeons have experience in robot-assisted surgery.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our hospital has advanced operating rooms and an ICU to improve the chances of success.
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques: Our robotic pancreas surgery is minimally invasive, which leads to less postoperative trauma.
  • World-Class Infrastructure: Our top-notch rehabilitation centres and recovery rooms provide the utmost comfort.
  • High Success Rate: By adhering to global safety standards, we ensure high success rates. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is robotic pancreas surgery?

Robotic pancreatic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is performed using a robotic device to remove tumours and treat pancreatic cancers.

Why is robotic pancreas surgery performed?

Robotic pancreatic surgery is performed to treat conditions that require removal or repair of the pancreas. 

What are the advantages of robotic pancreas surgery in Mumbai?

Robotic pancreas surgery procedures have reduced the risks of infection and fewer postoperative complications, leading to a quicker recovery. 

What are some risks and complications of robotic pancreatic surgery?

Although robotic pancreatic surgery is much safer than traditional open surgery, there can still be certain complications that include infections, pancreatic leaks, delayed gastric emptying, and bleeding.

How long do you need to be in the hospital after robotic pancreas surgery?

After robotic pancreas surgery, you might have to stay at the hospital for 3–7 days, depending on the procedure and complexity.

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