da Vinci Robot/Machine (Intuitive Surgical)

What is the da Vinci robot?

The da Vinci robot is a surgical system that allows the surgeon to perform minimally invasive surgery through just a few tiny incisions. The system, designed for extreme precision, comprises tiny instruments that can bend and rotate much more than a human hand. The machine also includes a specially designed high-definition system, which allows the surgeon to see the inside of the body and the site of surgery very clearly. The machine works by translating the surgeon's hand movements into precise movements of the surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon complete control throughout the procedure.

How does it work?

The da Vinci robot has two sections: the tower and the console. The tower is the part of the machine that is placed over the patient during a surgical procedure. This section of the robot comprises four arms, three of which hold the tiny surgical instruments and one that holds a high-definition 3D camera. The arms on the tower are controlled by a computer system, which works by translating the surgeon's hand movements into movements of the surgical tools inside the body.

The console is the area in which the surgeon sits to operate the robot's controls. The surgeon will look into a special monitor, allowing him to see a 3D view of the inside of the body. The surgeon can fully control the robot's arms by using controls in the console area of the machine.

What are the benefits?

Doctors employ a variety of technologies to extend their talents beyond what the human body is capable of. Doctors may "see" into the body using MRI and CT scanners, for example. Similarly, many surgeons employ the da Vinci robot system to do robotic-assisted surgery because it expands the capabilities of their eyes and hands. Because surgery performed with the da Vinci robot is minimally invasive, patients experience minimal scarring and generally have a much quicker recovery time. There is also usually less pain, less risk of blood loss and a significantly reduced risk of infection.

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