ROBOTIC PELVIC & GYNAECOLOGICAL SURGERY

ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY FOR PELVIC & BLADDER CONDITIONS

Dr Fay Chao in Melbourne, VIC, offers robotic-assisted surgery for individuals with complex pelvic, bladder, or pelvic floor conditions, providing advanced, minimally invasive surgical options tailored to each person’s needs. Robotic technology enhances precision, visualisation, and control, allowing for refined surgical intervention while supporting faster recovery and reduced post-operative discomfort compared with traditional approaches.

Robotic surgery is especially valuable in situations where intricate anatomical structures, delicate tissue handling, and accurate reconstruction are essential. Dr Chao combines her subspecialty expertise in urogynaecology and pelvic reconstructive surgery with robotic technology to deliver safe, effective, and personalised care.

THE ADVANTAGES OF ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY

Robotic-assisted surgery, performed with systems such as the da Vinci Surgical System, offers several potential benefits:

  • Smaller incisions, resulting in reduced scarring and faster healing
  • Enhanced three-dimensional magnified vision for improved surgical accuracy
  • Greater dexterity and precision with wristed instruments
  • Potentially shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily activities
  • Reduced risk of tissue trauma during complex procedures

These benefits allow Dr Chao to address conditions like pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, or other pelvic floor disorders with meticulous care while supporting improved functional outcomes.

HOW ROBOTIC SURGERY IS PERFORMED

Robotic surgery involves the surgeon controlling robotic instruments from a console, translating hand movements into precise instrument actions inside the patient’s body. This allows for highly refined dissection, suturing, and repair in areas that are difficult to access with traditional techniques.

During the procedure:

  • Small incisions are made to insert the robotic instruments and camera
  • The surgeon operates the system from a console with magnified 3D vision
  • Each movement is precisely controlled, allowing delicate tissues to be handled with care
  • The procedure is tailored to the individual’s anatomy, condition, and treatment goals

Patients typically experience less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery compared with open surgery, while maintaining high-quality surgical outcomes.

WHEN ROBOTIC SURGERY IS CONSIDERED

Robotic-assisted surgery may be considered for:

  • Complex pelvic reconstructive procedures
  • Multi-compartment pelvic organ prolapse repair
  • Certain urinary incontinence surgeries requiring intricate reconstruction
  • Individuals seeking minimally invasive approaches with reduced recovery time

Not all cases require robotic surgery. Dr Chao carefully evaluates each individual’s condition, discussing surgical and non-surgical options to ensure the chosen approach aligns with personal goals and clinical appropriateness.

SUPPORTIVE CARE & RECOVERY

Recovery from robotic-assisted surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual health factors. Most people experience:

  • Less post-operative discomfort than traditional open surgery
  • Shorter hospital stays and faster mobilisation
  • Tailored guidance on activity, pelvic floor exercises, and gradual return to routines

Dr Chao and her team provide clear instructions and ongoing support, ensuring individuals feel informed and confident during recovery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ROBOTIC SURGERY

  • What is the difference between robotic and traditional surgery?

    Robotic surgery uses a surgeon-controlled robotic system to enhance precision, visualisation, and dexterity, allowing minimally invasive procedures with smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery.

  • Is robotic surgery safe?

    Yes. Robotic-assisted procedures are performed by trained specialists with extensive experience. Risks are discussed in detail prior to surgery, similar to any surgical intervention.

  • How long is recovery after robotic surgery?

    Recovery varies by procedure, but most people experience faster recovery and reduced post-operative discomfort compared with traditional open surgery.

  • Will robotic surgery completely resolve my symptoms?

    Robotic surgery is designed to address specific anatomical or functional issues. Outcomes are highly dependent on the condition being treated, individual anatomy, and adherence to post-operative guidance.

  • Who is a good candidate for robotic surgery?

    Candidates are individuals with pelvic or bladder conditions that benefit from precise, minimally invasive surgery. Dr Chao evaluates each person individually to determine suitability and discuss alternative approaches if needed.

For information about robotic pelvic surgery, please call our team on (03) 9802 4668.