How Should We Choose Robotic Surgery in Cancer Treatment?

Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with a treatment process that is quite complex and challenging. In recent years, technological advances in medicine have enabled significant steps to be taken to make cancer treatment more effective and safer. Robotic surgery is at the forefront of these developments. Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive method used in cancer treatment and offers many advantages compared to traditional surgical methods. However, before using robotic surgery in cancer treatment, there are many factors that patients and doctors need to consider.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to choose robotic surgery in cancer treatment. In the following sections of the article, the advantages provided by robotic surgery, which cancer types it is used for, which patients are suitable for robotic surgery, and the points to consider when choosing this surgery will be discussed in detail.

1. What is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery is a surgical technique in which the surgeon intervenes on the patient through a robotic system. The surgeon sits at the control panel or console of the robotic system and performs the surgical procedure by controlling the robotic arms. These systems are typically equipped with 3D high-resolution cameras and precise robotic arms, allowing surgeons to perform procedures with smaller incisions and greater precision. One of the most important advantages of robotic surgery is that it provides a minimally invasive approach, enabling patients to recover faster.

2. The Role of Robotic Surgery in Cancer Treatment

The increasing use of robotic surgery in cancer treatment stems from the many advantages that technology offers. Robotic surgery in cancer treatment can be particularly effective in the following situations:

2.1. Minimally Invasive Surgical Method

Surgeries performed in cancer treatment are usually done with large incisions. This can prolong the patient's recovery process and increase the risk of complications. The minimally invasive approach of robotic surgery allows surgical intervention with smaller incisions. This enables patients to experience less pain and recover faster. Additionally, the risk of infection is reduced thanks to smaller incisions.

2.2. Less Bleeding and Complication Risk

The precision and control provided by robotic surgery can reduce complications in cancer treatment. Particularly, the bleeding risk can be lower thanks to the precision provided by robotic surgery. The surgeon's ability to intervene with less bleeding can accelerate the healing process and prevent complications.

2.3. Better Visualization and Precision

Robotic surgical systems offer 3D high-resolution cameras and magnification features. This allows surgeons to see cancerous tissues more clearly and intervene accurately. Especially in areas where the risk of cancer spread is high, the visualization provided by robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform procedures more effectively.

3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Robotic Surgery

3.1. Cancer Type and Location

Which cancer types robotic surgery can be used for is one of the most important factors in the treatment process. Robotic surgery is generally preferred for:

• Colon and Rectal Cancer: In colon and rectal cancer surgeries, robotic surgery is quite effective thanks to its minimally invasive approach. In these types of cancers, less invasive intervention can be performed with robotic surgery and the recovery process can be accelerated.

• Prostate Cancer: The use of robotic surgery in prostate cancer treatment is widespread. Robotic systems allow for precise removal of the prostate, which can improve the patient's quality of life by protecting nerves.

• Uterine and Ovarian Cancer: Robotic surgery can also be a successful option for cancers of female reproductive organs. Especially in uterine and ovarian cancer surgeries, robotic systems offer more precise intervention possibilities.

• Conditions Requiring Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery: In some cancer types, laparoscopic methods are preferred. Robotic surgery enables more precise and controlled procedures compared to laparoscopic methods.

The stage of cancer, whether it has metastasized, its location and spread status are the basic factors that determine whether robotic surgery can be applied or not. Robotic surgery may be more suitable for patients where the cancer is localized, has not spread, and can be treated with surgical intervention.

3.2. Patient Age and General Health Status

Robotic surgery should be chosen considering age and general health status. For elderly patients or patients with poor general health conditions, robotic surgery may be preferred because it provides less trauma and faster recovery process. However, traditional surgical methods may be more suitable for some patients, so a personalized treatment plan should be created for each patient.

3.3. Surgeon's Experience and Competence

To successfully perform robotic surgery, the surgeon must be experienced in using this technology. The success rate of robotic surgery is directly related to the surgeon's competence. Working with surgeons who have completed robotic surgery training and actively use this technology ensures that the treatment process is safer and more efficient.

3.4. Equipment and Technological Infrastructure

Robotic surgery is a treatment method that requires advanced technological infrastructure. Therefore, it is important that hospitals where robotic surgery will be chosen have appropriate robotic surgical systems. Healthcare institutions with robotic surgical systems such as Da Vinci and Versius can apply this treatment method more effectively.

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Robotic Surgery

4.1. Advantages

• Less pain and faster recovery thanks to minimally invasive approach.

• Lower complication rates, especially bleeding and infection risk.

• Shorter hospital stay and early discharge.

• More successful results by providing high precision and controlled movement.

• Reduced suture marks and more aesthetic surgical results.

4.2. Disadvantages

• High cost: Robotic surgery can be more expensive than traditional surgery.

• Technological failures: The possibility of robotic surgical systems breaking down can be an obstacle for emergency situations.

• Training requirement: Surgeons need to receive training to use robotic surgery effectively.

5. Conclusion

Robotic surgery is a technological advancement that occupies an important place in cancer treatment. However, before choosing robotic surgery, patients need to consider many factors that should be taken into account in the treatment process. The type of cancer, the patient's general health condition, the surgeon's experience, and the technological infrastructure used are the basic factors that determine whether robotic surgery is appropriate.

The advantages offered by robotic surgery carry great hopes, especially in accelerating the recovery process of cancer treatment and reducing complications. However, the best treatment option for each patient should be determined in line with their personal situation and needs.