A Patient’s Guide to Robotic surgery: Everything you need to know.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sergio Hernandez, MD

Board-Certified General & Robotic Surgeon

Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch, Florida

If you or a loved one has been told you need surgery, you may have heard about robotic surgery as an option. While the idea of a robot assisting in surgery may sound intimidating, robotic-assisted surgery is a safe, surgeon-controlled, minimally invasive technique used every day to improve precision and recovery.

Dr. Sergio Hernandez, a general and robotic surgeon in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, believes patient education is essential to confident decision-making. This guide explains what robotic surgery is, how it works, and when it may be beneficial.

What Is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical approach in which a specially trained surgeon controls a robotic system to perform precise movements through small incisions. The robot does not act independently — it cannot move unless the surgeon directs it.

The most widely used platform is the da Vinci Surgical System, which enhances the surgeon’s vision, dexterity, and control during complex procedures

Key Components of the Robotic System

• Surgeon console: Where the surgeon controls all movements

• Robotic arms: Hold and manipulate surgical instruments with extreme precision

• 3D high-definition camera: Provides magnified, three-dimensional visualization

• Control tower: Powers instruments and transmits images in real time

Components of Robotic system includes Console, Tower, and Da Vinci Robot.

How Is It Different from Traditional Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery builds upon laparoscopic surgery but offers greater precision and flexibility.

Key Differences:

• Enhanced precision: Ideal for delicate tissue dissection (e.g., hernia repair)

• Superior visualization: 3D, magnified views improve accuracy

• Less tissue trauma: Smaller movements reduce inflammation and pain

• Improved dexterity: Instruments rotate beyond the human wrist

• Advanced suturing: Internal suturing is faster and more secure than laparoscopy

Typical set up in the Operating room using the DaVinci system

What Are the Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Patients may experience:

• Smaller incisions and less scarring

• Reduced postoperative pain

• Shorter hospital stays

• Faster recovery and return to daily activities

• Reduced blood loss

• Improved surgical outcomes in complex cases

What Conditions Can Be Treated with Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery is used in a wide range of procedures, including:

• Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix

• Cholecystectomy: Removal of gallbladder

• Heart surgery: Certain types of heart valve repairs and bypass surgeries.

• Colorectal surgery: Treatment of conditions like colon cancer or diverticulitis.

• Hernia repair: Robotic systems allow for precise placement of mesh and suturing during hernia surgery.

• Bariatric Surgery: Weight loss surgery

• Prostate and urological surgery: Enlargement of the prostate and prostate cancer

• Gynecological surgery: Removal of the uterus, ovaries, endometriosis. As well as other benign and malignant causes

• Thoracic Surgery: treatment of pulmonary nodules and lung cancer

• ENT Surgery: treatment of benign and malignant tumors and obstructive sleep apnea

  
  

Is Robotic Assisted Surgery Safe?

Yes. Robotic surgery is FDA-approved and has been safely performed for many years. Surgeons undergo specialized training and credentialing before performing robotic procedures. Multiple safety systems are built into the technology

What Should I Expect During and After the Procedure?

• Before surgery: You will undergo a pre-operative assessment to ensure you’re a good candidate for robotic-assisted surgery. Your surgeon will explain the procedure and answer questions

• During surgery: You will be under general anesthesia, asleep, and won’t feel any pain during the operation. 

• After surgery: Most robotic surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure were you can expect to go home the same day.  However, you may be discharged from the hospital sooner and experience less post-operative discomfort  compared to traditional surgery. 

Commonly asked questions about robotic surgery

Is robotic surgery safe?

Yes! Robotic surgery is FDA-approved and has been used in hospitals worldwide for over a decade. Surgeons are extensively trained to use the robotic system safely and effectively.

Is the robot performing the surgery?

No! Your surgeon is in full control of the robotic system at all times. The robot assists by enhancing precision and instrument stability

Does robotic surgery hurt less than traditional surgery?

Most patients experience less pain, minimal scarring, and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery. However, pain levels depend on the type of surgery and the individual patient.

What happens during a power outage?

Hospitals are equipped for power outages and prepare for situations like this with backup generators.  On most cases, surgeries can proceed without interruption within minutes

What happens if there's a malfunction of one of the robotic arms?

Although this is a rare occurrence, it can happen. Simple procedures are in place which identifies the error immediately, and allows for troubleshooting of the problem individually. During the process the instruments are locked into place automatically to avoid any accidental movement or tissue injury.  On most cases there are robotic technicians on site which expedite the process.  Most troubleshooting is usually fixed within minutes

 What happens if the robot stops working?

This is an extremely rare occurrence.  The robot can simply undock or separated from the patient and shut off/on  like a computer. This reboot all internal systems and allow safe continuation of the surgery. Alternatively, a different robot can be used  depending on the facility

 How are instruments exchanged?

One of the benefits of the robotic platform is the exchanging of instruments. The robotic system memorizes the prior position, instruments are exchanged and placed in the perfect position which allows seamless continuation of the surgery with the appropriate Instruments.

Is robotic surgery covered by insurance?

Yes, in most cases. Many insurance plans cover robotic surgery just like traditional surgery, but it’s always best to check with your provider.

Is Robotic Surgery Right for You?

On most cases, Yes! However, Not every patient is a candidate for robotic-assisted surgery. Your eligibility will depend on several factors, such as your overall health, prior surgical procedures, the complexity of your condition, and your surgeon’s experience with robotic systems.

Final Thoughts

Robotic-assisted surgery has transformed modern surgical care by allowing greater precision and less invasive. When performed by a properly trained surgeon, it can offer safer procedures, faster recovery, and excellent outcomes.

If you are considering surgery and want to explore robotic options in Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sergio Hernandez. Call us at 941-362-8662