Gynecological cancer refers to the group of cancers that affect the female reproductive system, including the cervix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and vagina.

Robotic surgery has revolutionized the field of gynecological cancer treatment, offering numerous benefits over traditional surgical approaches. In this article, we will explore some of the specialized techniques used in robotic gynecological cancer surgery.

1. Robotic-Assisted Radical Hysterectomy

Robotic-assisted radical hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to remove the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissues in cases of gynecological cancer.

The da Vinci Surgical System is commonly used for this procedure, offering enhanced precision, dexterity, and visualization. This technique allows for smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and improved surgical outcomes.

2. Robotic Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy

Robotic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is a procedure where both the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed. This technique can be used as a preventive measure in high-risk women or as part of the treatment for gynecological cancers.

Robotic surgery enables meticulous dissection, precise removal of tissues, and preservation of surrounding structures. Patients experience less postoperative pain, minimal scarring, and quicker return to normal activity.

3. Robotic Lymphadenectomy

Lymphadenectomy involves the removal of lymph nodes for staging and treatment purposes in gynecological cancers.

Robotic-assisted lymphadenectomy offers improved visualization and precise dissection of lymph nodes, increasing the accuracy of cancer staging. The da Vinci System’s articulated instruments and three-dimensional view allow surgeons to navigate challenging anatomical spaces with ease.

4. Robotic-assisted Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping

The sentinel lymph node is the initial lymph node that receives drainage from a tumor, indicating the potential spread of cancer.

Robotic-assisted sentinel lymph node mapping enables surgeons to identify and remove only the specific lymph nodes that are most likely to harbor cancer cells. This technique minimizes the number of lymph nodes removed, reduces the risk of lymphedema, and improves surgical outcomes.

5. Robotic Radical Trachelectomy

Radical trachelectomy is a fertility-sparing procedure performed in select cases of early-stage cervical cancer.

Robotic-assisted radical trachelectomy combines the advantages of minimally invasive surgery with precise and meticulous dissection, allowing for the preservation of fertility in women of reproductive age. This technique offers low blood loss, excellent visualization, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

6. Robotic-assisted Sacrocolpopexy

Sacrocolpopexy is a surgical procedure performed to treat pelvic organ prolapse in women.

Robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy offers superior visualization and fine manipulation of sutures, enabling the secure attachment of the vaginal vault to the sacral promontory. This technique reduces the risk of complications, such as mesh erosion, and provides durable support to correct pelvic organ prolapse.

7. Robotic-assisted Chemotherapy Infusion

Robotic-assisted chemotherapy infusion is a novel technique that enables targeted delivery of chemotherapy drugs to specific areas affected by gynecological cancers.

By utilizing robotic arms and precise control, surgeons can administer chemotherapy directly to tumor sites with high accuracy, minimizing systemic side effects and improving treatment efficacy.

8. Robotic Reconstruction and Anastomosis

In certain cases of gynecological cancer surgery, reconstruction and anastomosis of organs or tissues may be required. Robotic technology allows for precise suturing and anastomosis, ensuring optimal vascular supply and functional continuity.

This technique results in reduced postoperative complications, improved healing, and better long-term outcomes.

9. Robotic-assisted Nerve-Sparing Surgery

Nerve-sparing surgery is crucial for preserving sexual function and urinary continence in gynecological cancer patients. Robotic-assisted surgery enables meticulous dissection, especially near delicate nerve structures.

Surgeons can identify and spare important nerves, enhancing patients’ quality of life after surgery.

10. Robotic Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Robotic sentinel lymph node biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure performed to assess the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes. By injecting a dye near the tumor site, surgeons can identify and remove the sentinel lymph node robotically.

This technique offers high accuracy, reduced morbidity, and improved lymph node detection rates.