The use of robots in the medical field has profoundly changed healthcare, reducing post-operative complications and improving the patient experience. Minimally invasive surgery is a clear example of how robotics has transformed medicine into a more patient-centric discipline . Instead of making large incisions, robotic surgeries allow for precise interventions with minimal scarring and shorter recovery times. This has allowed patients to return to their daily activities more quickly and with less pain.
At an economic level, robotics has also brought significant advantages. Although the initial investment in a robotic surgical system is high, the savings in long-term hospital costs can be considerable . In fact, by reducing hospital stays and postoperative complications, robotic systems make it possible to optimize medical resources and reduce the overall cost of care. Furthermore, as technology becomes increasingly democratized and new specialized professionals are trained, these benefits are expected to extend to a greater number of patients in the coming years.
Doctor is in a laboratory doing tests
Advantages of robotic surgery
Robotic surgery offers a number of advantages that have contributed to its popularity in various specialties. As we have already seen, one of the main advantages is greater precision . Surgical robots are capable of performing more precise and delicate movements than the human hand, which is crucial in highly complex surgeries, such as cardiac and neurological interventions. This precision minimizes damage to surrounding tissues and allows for a faster recovery.
Reduced postoperative complications : Thanks to smaller incisions and precise movements, the risk of infections, bleeding and complications is significantly reduced. This improves the patient's experience and their long-term prognosis.
Less pain and scarring : By performing minimally invasive surgeries, patients experience less pain and suffer less visible scars. This also reduces the need for painkillers and speeds up the return to daily life.
Shorter hospital stays : Patients operated on using robotic techniques usually require fewer days of hospitalization. This is not only beneficial for the patient, but also for the health system, by jamaica whatsapp data freeing up beds for other people and reducing hospital costs.
Facilitates learning and training : The inclusion of a second console in some robotic systems allows surgeons in training to practice under the supervision of a mentor. This facilitates learning and improves the safety of the procedures.
From an environmental perspective, robotic surgery presents challenges in terms of sustainability , as it generates higher greenhouse gas emissions and waste compared to traditional surgery. However, the benefits in terms of reduced complications and shorter hospital stays can offset these impacts, especially if medical staff become more efficient in using this technology.
The truth is that currently, only a small fraction of surgeries worldwide are performed with robotic assistance , which highlights the need to expand access to these systems, especially in less developed countries. The goal, therefore, is to democratize robotic surgery, making it more accessible and reducing overall care costs.
Looking ahead, advances in visualization , such as better integration of preoperative and intraoperative imaging, as well as augmented reality, are expected to make robotic surgery more intuitive and precise. In addition, improvements in electronic components, such as miniaturization and artificial intelligence, are anticipated to boost precision in complex procedures.