A Comprehensive Look at Robotic Bariatric Surgery
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When it comes to achieving long-term weight-loss solutions, hormonal levels have to be altered to regulate the appetite requiring bariatric surgeries such as a ‘Sleeve Gastrectomy’, ‘Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch’, and ‘Roux en-Y Bypass’. To conduct such surgeries, advanced robotic systems are being used by many surgeons today due to the benefits like great precision, and less probability of infections. If you are a resident of Dallas and are in desperate search of advanced long-term weight loss solutions, consider robotic surgery in Dallas. But before that, read this blog, as we take a comprehensive look at the concept of robotic bariatric surgeries.

1. What is Robotic Bariatric Surgery?

Robotic bariatric surgery is defined as a method of weight-loss surgery that is mediated through a robotics system called da Vinci systems. Contrary to the perception that a surgery necessarily means large openings in the body, robotic bariatric surgeries help surgeons make small incisions the size of fingertips making it less invasive than its traditional laparoscopic counterparts. In a robotic bariatric surgery, the surgeons control the robotic arms (patient cart) to maneuver and make precise movements through a console supported by a vision cart.

2. What are the options available in Robotic Bariatric Surgery?

You can get a majority of traditional bariatric surgeries done with the robotic method:

  • Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB): This is a minimally invasive weight-loss surgical procedure performed by making small incisions in the upper abdomen using robotic arms. Under this procedure, the size of the stomach is reduced by wrapping a band around it, which results in less food intake. The band used is an adjustable, inflatable silicone ring that divides the stomach into two parts – a smaller upper pouch and a larger lower compartment. Since the upper pouch fills almost immediately, a sense of fullness restricts the individual’s appetite. Unlike other bariatric surgeries, LAGB doesn’t require stapling or stitching of the stomach.
  • Sleeve Gastrectomy: Also known as ‘Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy’, under this surgical procedure multiple small incisions are made for inserting small instruments in the upper abdomen to remove 80% of your stomach, leaving a banana-shaped pouch. This limits the production of ‘Ghrelin’ (hunger hormone) and reduces your food intake. Apart from weight loss, some of the other positive outcomes you observe in terms of overall well-being are controlled hypertension or improvements in heart diseases.
  • Roux-en Y Gastric Bypass: Pronounced as ‘roo-en-wy’, under this robotic surgical bariatric procedure connects the upper portion of the stomach directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach which ultimately reduces your appetite. One of the most preferred surgical weight-loss solutions, the gastric bypass has been in practice since the early 60s and with time and the introduction of robotic technology, it is safer than ever before.
  • Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: Biliopancreatic Diversion or Duodenal Switch is a two-stepped surgical bariatric procedure involves gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery aimed at limiting the absorption of nutrients by reducing the food coming in contact with the small intestine. It is also designed to reduce the intake capacity of the stomach, thus reducing your appetite as well. This effective measure to fight against obesity is generally prescribed to those having a 50+ BMI or extreme diabetes.
  • Single Anastomosis Duodenoileal Bypass Surgery (SADI-S): This modern surgical bariatric solution is a variation of Duodenal Switch with a slight modification in bypassing technique. Unlike two (in Duodenal Switch), there is only one bypass in SADI-S, which reduces the risk of complications for the patients.
  • Single Intestinal Pylorus Sparing Duodenal Switch (SIPS): Also known as Single-Anastomosis Duodenal Switch, this procedure resembles the basic Duodenal Switch except that in this, the intestine is not divided. This surgical procedure involves bypassing the majority of the stomach, keeping its functionality intact. SIPS is an effective surgical weight-loss solution that focuses on reducing food intake & malabsorption.

As you can see, robotic surgery can be used for a variety of bariatric surgical procedures. But choosing a weight loss surgery is not something one can decide for themselves. The eligibility depends on your BMI and other health-related issues, which is why you should consult a bariatric doctor.

3. What are the benefits of Robotic Bariatric Surgery?

When it comes to robot-mediated bariatric surgeries, the benefits are worth mentioning:

  • Smaller Incisions: Robots are free from human errors, work on commands, and are precise in their functioning, which is why when it comes to making smaller incisions, these robots can help enhance laparoscopic procedures by helping surgeons make micro incisions of 8 mm. It helps in reducing the risk of contaminations.
  • Superior Vision: The binocular vision of a robot is well-capable to increase its depth of perception, providing a crisp 3-dimensional view for the surgeon.
  • Quicker Recovery Rates: When it comes to bariatric surgeries, robots are known to be minimally invasive, which implies lesser discomfort and a faster recovery rate. This saves time for the patient to return back to work.

  Conclusion

Robotic bariatric surgery is an advanced weight loss surgery method that helps enhance the quality of traditional bariatric procedures. Getting a robotic-assisted surgery in the DFW region is simple, all it takes is for you to consult the leading bariatric surgeon offering robotic bariatric surgery and discuss your condition and budget. Your surgeon will guide you about which robotic bariatric surgery is suitable for you, the probable side effects, and what lifestyle changes will have to be incorporated.

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