Understanding How Robotic Surgery Works

Robotic surgery combines the expertise of trained surgeons with the precision of robotic technology. It’s a method that involves robotic arms connected to a computer and controlled by your surgeon in the operating room.

And while it might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, robotic surgery is unparalleled when it comes to success rates and patient satisfaction.

That’s why Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, and our team are proud to perform robotic surgery in San Clemente, California. We specialize in robotic abdominal surgery, but we know that considering any type of surgical procedure can be nerve-wracking.

Here’s what you need to know about how robotic surgery works and what to expect.

Before your robotic procedure

Most of the time, preparing for robotic surgery is just like preparing for traditional open surgery. The only difference is that you can expect a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery with robotic surgery.

When we schedule your procedure, we give you specific instructions about how to prepare. You may need to temporarily stop taking certain medications and plan to bring someone with you to your appointment.

On the day of your procedure, come to the surgery center in comfortable clothing. You change into a surgical gown, and then our team begins preparing you for surgery.

We move you into the operating room and administer anesthesia so you don’t feel anything during the procedure. Before you fall asleep, you might notice robotic arms and a computer console in the operating room with you.

During robotic surgery

Dr. Klause performs robotic surgery at the computer console located in the operating room. It’s a motion-capable computer, which means she uses handheld controls to move the robotic arms, which hold the surgical tools.

She begins by making small incisions, then guides the robotic arms and tools to complete your surgery. 

Robotic surgery is minimally invasive and extremely precise. Dr. Klause uses a high-definition camera inserted into the incision to see exactly what she’s doing, and robotic methods minimize risks like blood loss and infection.

Dr. Klause stays in the operating room with you the whole time, and she is the one who directs each movement of the robotic arms. Robotic technology gives her unparallelled control, which means she can often perform surgery faster and with better results.

Recovering from robotic surgery

Once your procedure is complete, Dr. Klause withdraws the robotic arms and closes your incisions. You’re moved into a recovery room, where you wake up gradually. 

You may need to stay in the hospital for a night or two, depending on the type of procedure you had. Because robotic surgery is minimally invasive, you can expect to have less discomfort and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.

Robotic surgery offers faster healing times, since the damage to healthy tissue is limited. We continue to monitor your condition as you heal, so attend your follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Robotic surgery is a tested solution for a wide range of abdominal surgeries. If you need surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Klause to find out if you’re a good candidate. Call our San Clemente, California, office at 949-393-2595 or book online now.