Advanced, High-Precision Minimally Invasive Surgery for Complex Cancers
Introduction
Robotic surgery represents the next evolution of minimally invasive cancer surgery. Using a
computer-enhanced surgical platform, robotic systems allow surgeons to perform highly precise,
delicate, and complex operations through tiny incisions. With magnified 3D vision, enhanced
dexterity, tremor filtration, and articulated instruments that mimic the movements of the human
wrist, robotic surgery offers unparalleled precision—especially in narrow, deep, or anatomically
challenging regions.
For many cancers, robotic surgery provides outcomes equivalent to or better than traditional
laparoscopy or open surgery, with less pain, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, and superior
functional outcomes. At our clinic, robotic cancer surgery is performed by specialised surgical
oncologists trained in advanced robotic techniques, following evidence-based protocols and
multidisciplinary planning. This aligns with our commitment to Cure, Precision, and
Compassion.
1. What Is Robotic Cancer Surgery?
Robotic cancer surgery is a minimally invasive approach where the surgeon operates using a
robotic console connected to robotic arms that hold the surgical instruments and camera.
Despite the term “robotic,” the robot does not operate on its own. The surgeon controls every
movement.
Key Components of a Robotic System
● Surgeon Console: The surgeon controls instruments while viewing a 3D magnified
field.
● Patient Cart: Robotic arms hold instruments and a high-definition camera.
● Vision System: Provides a stable, magnified, three-dimensional operative view.
Robotic platforms combine the advantages of laparoscopy with enhanced precision, making
them particularly suitable for cancer surgeries that require meticulous dissection.
2. Cancers Commonly Treated With
Robotic Surgery
Robotic techniques are used across multiple surgical oncology subspecialties
A. Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers
● Colorectal cancer (rectal cancer, low anterior resection)
● Oesophageal cancer
● Gastric cancer
● Pancreatic surgeries (in selected cases)
Robotic systems allow safer operations in deep pelvic or retroperitoneal spaces.
B. Urologic Cancers
● Prostate cancer (robotic prostatectomy)
● Kidney cancer (partial or radical nephrectomy)
● Adrenal tumours
Robotic prostatectomy is the global gold standard.
C. Gynaecologic Cancers
● Endometrial cancer
● Cervical cancer
● Ovarian cancer (selected procedures)
D. Thoracic Cancers
● Mediastinal tumours
● Lung cancer resections (robotic VATS or RATS)
E. Head and Neck Cancers
● Robotic oropharyngeal surgery (TORS)
F. Complex Multi-Quadrant Surgeries
Where conventional laparoscopy is limited.
3. Advantages of Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery offers numerous clinical and functional benefits, especially in cancer treatment.
1. Enhanced Precision
Robotic instruments offer:
● Seven degrees of freedom
● Tremor filtration
● Articulated movements beyond human capability
Ideal for precise dissection around vital structures.
2. Superior Visualisation
The 3D high-definition camera offers:
● Magnified view
● Better depth perception
● Enhanced ability to identify tissue planes
3. Greater Surgeon Comfort and Control
Reduced physical strain improves focus during long operations.
4. Smaller Incisions & Less Pain
Leads to:
● Shorter hospital stay
● Reduced postoperative pain
● Lower wound infection risk
5. Lower Blood Loss
Precise dissection and energy control minimise bleeding.
6. Faster Recovery
Patients typically return to normal activities sooner.
7. Better Functional Outcomes
Particularly important for surgeries involving:
● Prostate (continence and sexual function)
● Rectum (nerve preservation)
● Oesophageal and pelvic cancers (avoidance of nerve damage)
8. Proven Oncologic Safety
Studies show:
● Equivalent margin status
● Adequate lymph node retrieval
● Comparable survival outcomes
Across multiple cancers.
4. Limitations of Robotic Surgery
While robotic surgery has many advantages, it may not be suitable in every case.
Tumour-Related Limitations
● Very large tumours
● Locally advanced cancers invading multiple organs
● Complex vascular involvement
Patient-Related Limitations
● Severe cardiopulmonary disease
● Inability to tolerate pneumoperitoneum or steep positioning
Logistical Considerations
● Longer setup time
● Requires specialised training and infrastructure
Selection is made after thorough evaluation by the surgical oncology team.
5. How Robotic Surgery Is Performed
Robotic surgery follows a structured multi-step process:
1. Anaesthesia and Positioning
General anaesthesia is administered; patient positioning depends on the procedure
(Trendelenburg, lithotomy, lateral, etc.).
2. Port Placement
Several small incisions (ports) are placed for the robot’s arms and camera.
3. Docking the Robot
The robotic arms are connected to the ports.
4. High-Definition Vision
The surgeon sits at the console, viewing a magnified 3D image.
5. Precision Dissection
The surgeon manipulates the robotic instruments, performing:
● Tumour resection
● Lymph node dissection
● Reconstruction (anastomosis, organ shaping, etc.)
6. Specimen Retrieval
Tumour tissue is removed through a protected extraction incision.
7. Closure
Small incisions are closed with minimal sutures.
6. Robotic Surgery in Specific Cancers
A. Robotic Colorectal Surgery
Especially beneficial for:
● Low rectal cancers
● Narrow pelvis
● Obese patients
Advantages:
● Better nerve preservation
● Improved anastomosis precision
● Lower conversion to open surgery
B. Robotic Prostatectomy
Global gold standard for prostate cancer
Benefits:
● Better continence outcomes
● Superior sexual function preservation
● Lower blood loss
● Clear surgical margins
C. Robotic Endometrial & Cervical Cancer Surgery
Better visualisation for:
● Pelvic lymph node dissection
● Parametrectomy
● Hysterectomy
D. Robotic Oesophageal and Gastric Surgery
Improved precision in:
● Mediastinal dissection
● Oesophageal mobilisation
● Anastomosis creation
E. Robotic Thoracic Surgery (RATS)
An alternative to VATS with:
● Better instrument control
● Superior dissection in complex tumours
7. Enhanced Recovery After Robotic
Surgery (ERAS)
Our clinic follows structured ERAS protocols to optimise outcomes.
Preoperative
● Nutritional optimisation
● Prehabilitation
● Counselling and expectation setting
Intraoperative
● Minimally invasive approach
● Opioid-sparing strategies
● Normothermia maintenance
Postoperative
● Early ambulation
● Early oral intake
● Physiotherapy
● Pain management with multimodal analgesia
ERAS reduces complications and accelerates rehabilitation.
8. Postoperative Recovery
Hospital Stay
● 1–3 days for many robotic procedures
● Faster than open or traditional laparoscopy
Pain and Wound Healing
● Minimal pain
● Small, neat scars
Return to Activity
● Light activities in 1–2 weeks
● Full recovery in 3–4 weeks
● Individual timelines vary based on surgery type
Follow-up
Includes review of:
● Pathology reports
● Need for adjuvant therapy
● Surveillance schedules
9. Risks and Potential Complications
Although robotic surgery is safe, possible risks include:
● Bleeding
● Infection
● Injury to surrounding organs
● Anastomotic leak (in GI surgeries)
● Conversion to open surgery (rare)
● Positioning-related nerve injuries (minimised with protocols)
We use robust safety protocols and intraoperative checklists to minimise risk.
10. Why Choose Our Clinic for Robotic
Surgery
1. Specialist Surgical Oncologists
Highly trained surgeons with advanced expertise in robotic procedures.
2. Multidisciplinary Planning
Complex cancer cases are discussed with:
● Medical oncology
● Radiation oncology
● Radiology
● Pathology
● Anaesthesia
3. Advanced Technology
Access to the latest-generation robotic systems.
4. Strong Oncologic Principles
Clear margins, adequate lymph node dissection, and tumour-safe handling.
5. Enhanced Recovery Programs
Structured protocols ensure faster and smoother recovery.
6. Patient-Centred, Compassionate Approach
Clear communication, emotional support, and personalised decision-making throughout the
surgical journey.
Conclusion
Robotic surgery represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive cancer treatment.
By enhancing surgical precision and reducing recovery time, robotic technologies allow patients
to experience better functional outcomes without compromising oncologic safety. With its
superior visualisation, dexterity, and patient comfort, robotic surgery is becoming the preferred
approach for many complex cancers.
At our clinic, we provide robotic cancer surgery with unwavering commitment to Cure,
Precision, and Compassion, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and personalised
care available.
