Robotic Bariatric Surgery
New Advances in Robotic Bariatric Surgery in Colorado
As new equipment and techniques continue to evolve, bariatric surgery has become even more efficient and safe. Robotic bariatric surgery is now making that difference. At Colorado Bariatric Surgery Institute, we are fortunate to have the most experienced robotic bariatric surgeon in the Rocky Mountain region. Our team is the only bariatric robotic epicenter in Colorado and is fully dedicated to helping patients live happier, healthier lives.
What to Expect in a Robot-Assisted Surgery
A common misconception of robotic bariatric surgery is that the robot performs the procedure. Fortunately, that is not how it works. Dr. Brown sits at a console next to the operating table and performs the necessary actions. The robot simply mimics those actions, translating them to a scaled-down motion for deliberate and precise movements. Dr. Brown has performed over 6,000 weight loss surgeries, over 1,000 of which were done robotically.
Ideal Candidates for Robotic Weight Loss Surgery
Robotic surgery is a great fit for any adult who is already a good candidate for elective bariatric surgery. Ideal candidates are people who are:
- Between the ages of 18 and 65
- Morbidly obese with a BMI of 40 or higher
- Obese with a BMI of 35 or higher and have another weight-related condition like diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, hypertension, or joint pain
- Unsuccessful after trying multiple diet and exercise programs
- Non smokers
- Dedicated to maintaining the lifestyle changes that accompany bariatric surgery
Robotic vs. Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery
While Dr. Brown has performed thousands of successful laparoscopic bariatric procedures, he has found compelling advantages that make robotic bariatric surgery a better surgical procedure: improved visualization, more precise movements, and the ability to monitor blood supply.
During robotic surgery, the 3D picture provided by the robot gives the surgeon depth perception. Traditional laparoscopic pictures are two-dimensional, so they look like something you would view on television. Depth perception allows for a more precise understanding of the anatomy and decreases the chance for error.
The robotic platform allows movement of the surgeon’s fingers and hands to be more controlled. This translates into more precise movement of instruments, allowing for improved and better surgical technique.
The robot has the technology to check the blood supply to the stomach at the end of the procedure by injecting a dye into the blood stream. This shows where the blood is flowing and eliminates any question involving the adequacy of blood supply to the stomach.
Recovery After Surgery
One of the biggest draws to robotic weight loss surgery is a faster, smoother recovery. Potential benefits of robotic-assisted surgery includes:
- Fewer complications
- Less pain
- Less blood loss
- Lower rates of infection
- Shorter hospital stay
- Reduced risk of needing a follow-up surgery
While it will still take some time to recover and adapt to a post-bariatric surgery lifestyle, in our experience, robotic bariatric surgery is superior to laparoscopic techniques. Want to find out more about robotic bariatric surgery? Contact our skilled and compassionate team at Colorado Bariatric Surgery Institute at 303-861-4505.