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 at Sulis Hospital and at the Royal United Hospital Bath through their private patient service which is 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 translate their movements during surgery. Despite the name, a robot does NOT perform the surgery. Your surgeon is in full control at all times.
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:
The patient cart positioned beside the operating table; robotic arms that hold the surgical instruments and high-definition 3D camera.
The surgeon's console, where the surgeon controls the instruments and views magnified real-time images of the procedure.
The 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
• Inguinal hernia repair
Your consultant will discuss whether robotic-assisted surgery is suitable for you.
Potential benefits of robotic-assisted surgery
Patients undergoing robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci® system may benefit from:
- Smaller incisions and reduced scarring.
- Less blood loss during surgery.
- Reduced pain after surgery.
- Lower risk of complications.
- Shorter hospital stays.
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities.
As with all surgery, outcomes vary between patients and your consultant will discuss the potential risks and benefits with you before treatment.
See what the Da Vinci robot can do, and how it's operated by the surgeon.
Click on the short video where expert Robotic Consultants Sarah Richards and Marc Bullock discuss da Vinci Robotic Technology at Sulis Hospital.
Personalised private care
Private patients 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.
The da Vinci® Surgical System is an advanced robotic platform that assists surgeons in performing precise, minimally invasive surgery. It does not operate independently. Your consultant is in full control at all times.
Yes. The da Vinci® System is used worldwide and supported by extensive clinical evidence. Your consultant will explain all risks and benefits to you so that you can make an informed decision.
Both techniques are minimally invasive however robotic surgery provides enhanced precision, a 3D high-definition view, and wrist-like instrument movement. This allows for finer control and improved access, especially in complex hernia repairs.
Most patients go home the same day or after one night in hospital. Light activities usually resume within a few days, with full recovery typically taking tow to four weeks, depending on the type of hernia and your general health. You will be advised to avoid heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks after your surgery to help healing.
Robotic hernia surgery can be the right choice for many patients, offering the same minimally invasive benefits as laparoscopic surgery including smaller incisions, less scaring, reduced bleeding and often a quicker, more comfortable recovery compared to open surgery.
Whether robotic hernia repair is the best option depends on several factors, such as:
- Type, size and location of your hernia
- Whether you have had hernia repairs previously
- The need for additional procedures, such as skin excision
- The availability of robotic technology
Some hernias are still best treated with open surgery. Your consultant will explain which approach is most appropriate for your specific condition and discuss how robotic surgery compares with other options so the you can make a confident, informed decision.
Treatment Overview
Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.
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Typical hospital stay Day Surgery
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Type of anaesthetic General
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Covered by health insurance? Partially
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Can I pay privately? Yes
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Fast track your treatment Da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery for hernia repair
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