Treating some gynecologic cancers has become easier through the use of minimally invasive therapies, including state-of-the-art robotic technology. Robotic surgery is an evolution from minimally invasive laparoscopy, which is another service commonly offered at UTMB Health.
In both types of treatments, medical conditions are addressed using specialized equipment and small incisions. The da Vinci® surgical system is the robotic system used at UTMB Health. UTMB was a pioneer in the use of robotic surgery, installing the first da Vinci® unit in Texas or the southwest and serving as one of the five original training sites, more than a decade ago.
Today, UTMB offers the latest in robotic technology, with a new generation of equipment with enhanced capabilities, and expert surgeons skilled in the equipment's use.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery
Today, there are only a few gynecologic oncology programs that
routinely perform advanced minimally invasive surgery (robotics or
laparoscopy) for gynecologic cancer. At UTMB Health, our physicians and
surgeons from across several disciplines are pioneering new techniques
and performing other procedures on a routine basis.
When appropriate to use, robotics has several advantages over
conventional MIS (laparoscopy), such as 3-D visualization, wristed
instruments, and ergonomics. It also offers potential benefits over
traditional surgery, including:
- Shorter hospital stay
- Less pain and scarring
- Less risk of infection
- Less blood loss and fewer transfusions
- Faster recovery
- Quicker return to normal activities
- Improved quality of life
Services
UTMB offers minimally invasive and robotic surgery for hysterectomy
for benign and malignant conditions including early stage endometrial,
ovarian and cervical cancers.