The FDA has approved a surgical robot, part of the da Vinci Surgical System, for use in thoracic surgery, general laparoscopic surgery, and for surgical assistance. The robot has 3 arms that can be moved with pinpoint accuracy. Its space age technology magnifies the skills of experienced surgeons.
Sitting across the room, the surgeon manipulates the robot’s controls. This translates into precise movements that allow for complex and delicate surgery through smaller incisions than ever before.
When it comes to operating on children, tiny incisions and extreme precision are welcome indeed! I expect that in the next few years, robotic support will enhance the expertise of pediatric surgeons and open the door for exciting advances in pediatric surgery.