Prostate Restored
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk Pexels Logo Photo: Pavel Danilyuk

Which is better open surgery or robotic surgery?

Because it is less invasive and more precise, robotic surgery offers several patient benefits when compared to traditional open surgery. These include: Smaller incisions. Lower risk of infection.

Does alcohol help prostate?
Does alcohol help prostate?

Epidemiologic evidence suggests that alcohol intake is linked to prostate disease in surprising and beneficial ways, with moderate consumption...

Read More »
How can I give my man energy?
How can I give my man energy?

How men can increase energy levels Diet. Eating too many processed, high-fat, or high-sugar foods can cause nutritional deficiencies and fatigue....

Read More »

Many people have heard the term “robotic surgery” before, but what does it mean exactly? This question arises when patients must decide between using a surgeon who opts for this new and highly technical form of surgery or a surgeon who recommends traditional open surgery. Fortunately, robotic surgery is less intimidating than it sounds and, in most cases, offers several advantages. For those who must undergo a surgical procedure, consider asking your surgeon whether robotic surgery is right for you. In the meantime, here’s more information on this new surgical method.

First Off, What Is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery — or robotic-assisted surgery — is a minimally invasive type of surgery in which surgeons use a console equipped with controllers that maneuver robotic arms. This console (called a da Vinci surgical system) also has a 3-D high-definition camera that provides a clear and magnified view of the target area. Using the console’s tiny and precise instruments, the surgeon can create small incisions, cauterize, staple, grasp and perform other actions — just as they would with their hands. While the term “robotic surgery” may sound as if a robot is performing the procedure, the surgeon is in full control of the movement of all the instruments.

What Are Some of the Benefits of Robotic Surgery?

Because it is less invasive and more precise, robotic surgery offers several patient benefits when compared to traditional open surgery. These include:

Smaller incisions

Lower risk of infection

Shorter hospital stays

Less pain and/or blood loss

Faster recovery times

Minimized scarring

Less reliance on narcotics during post-op

There also are several reasons why many surgeons prefer this technologically advanced form of surgery. To begin with, some surgeons like robotic cases as the visualization is far superior to laparoscopic surgery. Oher aids in the robot platform can help surgeons better assess blood supply to organs, as well as identify important but hard-to-see structures, such as bile ducts. Even the robotic stapler, for instance, has fail-safes that prevent mistakes.

Is Robotic Surgery Better?

While robotic surgery can reduce pain and healing time while allowing surgeons more or better control, it isn't for everyone. Simply put, every surgical technique has its place. In some cases, open surgery provides surgeons better access to the area being operated on. Or, a patient's medical condition or age may require open surgery. More and more complex surgeries are being done robotically, however. Hernia surgery , for example, is far easier for some surgeons to perform through a robotic procedure. While it’s difficult to say which type of surgery is “better” for now, robotic techniques and instruments are only getting better each year. In the future, patients may find this choice between robotic and open surgery an easier one to navigate.

Are pumpkin seeds good for prostate?
Are pumpkin seeds good for prostate?

They are rich in zinc. Normal prostate function relies on optimal zinc levels. For this reason, a handful of pumpkin seeds a 2-3 times a week can...

Read More »
Is dark chocolate an anti-inflammatory?
Is dark chocolate an anti-inflammatory?

70% cocoa dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which have some major anti-inflammatory effects. Flavanols help to reduce inflammation and keep...

Read More »

How often should you urinate with a catheter?

Ask how often you should empty your bladder with your catheter. In most cases, it is every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 to 6 times a day. Always empty your bladder first thing in the morning and just before you go to bed at night. You may need to empty your bladder more frequently if you have had more fluids to drink.

Urine will drain through your catheter into the toilet or a special container. Your health care provider will show you how to use your catheter. After some practice, it will get easier. Sometimes family members or other people you know such as a friend who is a nurse or medical assistant may be able to help you use your catheter. Catheters and other supplies can be bought at medical supply stores. You will get a prescription for the right catheter for you. There are many different types and sizes. Other supplies may include towelettes and lubricant such as K-Y Jelly or Surgilube. Do not use Vaseline (petroleum jelly). Your provider can also submit a prescription to a mail order company to have the supplies and catheters delivered to your house. Ask how often you should empty your bladder with your catheter. In most cases, it is every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 to 6 times a day. Always empty your bladder first thing in the morning and just before you go to bed at night. You may need to empty your bladder more frequently if you have had more fluids to drink. Avoid letting your bladder get too full. This increases your risk of infection, permanent kidney damage, or other complications.

Can liver go back to normal?
Can liver go back to normal?

The liver is very resilient and capable of regenerating itself. Each time your liver filters alcohol, some of the liver cells die. The liver can...

Read More »
Which is sexier blonde or brunette?
Which is sexier blonde or brunette?

Numerous studies point to brunette hair being more attractive. Take this 2011 study from dating app Badoo, for example. A couple of thousand UK men...

Read More »
Should diapers cover belly button?
Should diapers cover belly button?

You do not want the diaper to cover the cord area as air helps the wound heal and dry, allowing it to fall off. It is important to keep the belly...

Read More »
What foods inflame a prostate?
What foods inflame a prostate?

Spicy And Acidic Foods Because they tend to inflame the bladder and prostate, spicy and acidic foods increase primary urinary symptoms in men with...

Read More »