Robotic bariatric surgery is a method to be considered as an alternative to laparoscopic bariatric surgery.
Robotic bariatric surgery is performed similarly to laparoscopic surgery. However, in robotic surgery, the surgeon sits at a console controlling the surgery remotely. The robotic arms move according to the surgeon's commands, and the surgeon obtains a three-dimensional image from the screen on the console. This allows the surgeon to perform more precise and accurate procedures.
The main purpose of bariatric surgery is to reduce morbidity and mortality related to obesity, and to improve metabolic and organ functions. Choosing the appropriate patient technique is very important in order to provide the highest benefit with the lowest risk. Therefore, individuals who are suitable for the surgery must meet certain criteria. Regardless of the BMI, all individuals must have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise for 6 months before bariatric surgery.
Roughly speaking, sleeve gastrectomy can be planned in the presence of at least two co-morbidities (hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.) for patients whose BMI value is between 32 and 40.
On the other hand, if BMI is over 40, gastric sleeve can be planned without the need for chronic diseases related to obesity, as it falls under morbid obesity.
Robotic bariatric surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the surgery time is approximately two hours. After the surgery, the patient usually stays in the hospital for two days.
When compared to laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is associated with less pain, shorter recovery time, and less risk of complications. However, prolonging the surgery time, not being available in all centers, and being costly are its disadvantages. All types of robotic bariatric surgery, robotic metabolic surgery and all robotic general surgery operations are successfully performed by our unit.
