Da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery for hernia repair

Precision surgery with the da Vinci® surgical system

Private patients can benefit from advanced robotic-assisted surgery through the Royal United Hospital Bath private patient service, managed by Sulis Hospital Bath.

The da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgical system is an advanced form of minimally invasive surgery, designed to help surgeons perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, flexibility and control.

Robotic-assisted surgery has been used worldwide for more than 20 years and is now an established technique across a range of specialties, including urology, gynaecology and general surgery.

Using high-definition 3D visualisation and highly precise surgical instruments, the da Vinci® system allows surgeons to operate through smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. This may help reduce pain after surgery, lower the risk of complications and support a faster recovery.

What is robotic-assisted surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery is performed by an experienced consultant surgeon using advanced robotic technology to assist their movements during surgery.

During the procedure, the surgeon controls robotic instruments from a dedicated console within the operating theatre. The robotic arms translate the surgeon’s hand movements into smaller, highly precise movements inside the body.

The procedure is carried out through a series of small incisions, making it a minimally invasive approach. The system also includes a high-definition 3D camera, providing the surgeon with a magnified and detailed view of the operating area.

The robotic instruments offer a greater range of motion than the human hand and are designed to filter out natural hand tremor, helping to enhance surgical precision.

How the da Vinci® system works

The da Vinci® surgical system consists of three integrated components:

A patient cart positioned beside the operating table, featuring robotic arms that hold the surgical instruments and 3D camera.

A surgeon console, where the surgeon controls the instruments and views magnified real-time images of the procedure.

A vision system that enables communication between the different components and delivers high-definition imaging throughout surgery.

Your surgeon remains fully in control at all times during the procedure.

Procedures performed using the da Vinci® system

The private patient services at the RUH offers da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgical system for:

•    Inguinal hernia repair

Your consultant will discuss whether robotic-assisted surgery is suitable for your individual treatment plan.

Personalised private care

Private patients treated through the Royal United Hospital Bath private patient service benefit from expert consultant-led care, modern facilities and access to advanced surgical technology, supported by the experienced teams at Sulis Hospital Bath and the Royal United Hospital Bath.