Staff surgeon with University Surgical Associates in Chattanooga, TN. Credit Alex McMahan PhotographyQ: I’ve been told I need to have a groin hernia repaired and robotic surgery may be an option. How do I know it is the right decision?
A: Hernia surgery is common and there are two basic approaches. The traditional “open” approach can be done under sedation and local anesthesia. The “minimally invasive” approach – laparoscopic or robotic – requires general anesthesia but has benefits including less pain, leading to earlier return to work. It’s a good option for those who have already had an open repair.
Robotic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery that’s performed through tiny incisions and includes a camera arm and mechanical arms with surgical instruments attached. The robot doesn’t perform the surgery, the surgeon controls the arms from a computer console nearby. The robot aids the surgeon specifically with procedures in areas difficult to access with other instruments.
– Dr. W. Heath Giles, University Surgical Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
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