Robotically assisted radical prostatectomy with the da Vinci^® XI HD System

This is a minimally invasive or laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure that involves removing the entire prostate and the regional lymph nodes with the aid of a surgical robot of the latest generation, made by Intuitive Surgery (da Vinci^® XI HD).

The robot implements with exact precision the movements performed by the urologist on the console in the operating theatre. The system does not independently perform even a single surgical step under its own power but simply functions as a precision instrument for an experienced surgeon. The high-resolution, three-dimensional HD screen, which is capable of producing a display with up to ten times magnification, presents the doctor with a comprehensive view of the operating zone, which, moreover, is superior to that possible with the traditional laparoscopic procedure. Thanks to the use of EndoWrist^® instruments, the hand movements of the surgeon are scaled, filtered and seamlessly transmitted to the robot’s arms and instruments that are in contact with the patient. They therefore give the surgeon a freedom of movement that is superior to that of the human hand.

The advantages of the da Vinci^® system

The benefits to the patient of the da Vinci® system compared with an open procedure include:

• Faster restoration of continence
• Better ability to maintain an erection (potency)
• Less blood loss
• Smaller incisions and scars
• Fewer wound healing disturbances
• Shorter stay in hospital