Heal From Hernias Faster With Robotic Surgery

A hernia is a common health issue that should never be ignored. Some can be managed with lifestyle changes, but others can become life-threatening if left untreated. Thankfully, hernia surgeries have advanced significantly, and now procedures can be performed with very small incisions, allowing patients to heal and feel better more quickly.

Keep reading to hear from one of our general surgeons, Ann Holloway, DO, FACS, on hernias and how they can be treated with robotic surgery.

What’s a Hernia?

“A hernia occurs when an area of weakened muscle tears, usually in the abdomen. This allows part of an internal organ or tissue to bulge through. Depending on the hernia’s location and size, it may be possible to see the bulge,” Dr. Holloway explains.

Most people with hernias get them as their muscles weaken with age. But others may develop hernias if they were born with weak abdominal muscles, are overweight, use tobacco or have poor nutrition — all of which increase their hernia risk.

“If you lift heavy objects, especially without using proper lifting techniques, or strain your muscles while coughing, sneezing or having a bowel movement, you can eventually develop a hernia or make an existing one worse,” says Dr. Holloway.

Symptoms of a Hernia

Symptoms of a hernia can vary depending on the type and location, but generally include:

• Pressure in the area of the hernia
• Visible bulging or a lump you can feel

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your primary care provider for proper care.

Treatment with Robotic Surgery

“Robotic surgery has been an option for surgeons for many years, but now the technology is more sophisticated than ever,” explains Dr. Holloway. As one of the most advanced robots in use, the da Vinci® system is now a viable alternative to open surgery and laparoscopic procedures, in many cases. “While using the robotic system to repair a hernia, surgeons have a greater degree of precision and range of motion in small spaces made with tiny incisions,” Dr. Holloway says.

The robotic instruments function like an extension of your surgeon’s hands — an operating room partner who:

• Gives surgeons a better physical position to operate in
• Gives surgeons unprecedented control in a minimally invasive environment
• Has 3D visualization capabilities, in addition to a monitor
• Has adjustable tips on the ends of its arms
• Has mechanical wrists with a 270-degree range of motion
• Minimizes surgeon fatigue

This advanced technology is revolutionizing surgical care for our providers and bringing exceptional benefits to our patients.

A Faster Road to Recovery

The da Vinci® system may be a marvel for surgeons to use, but patients benefit most from robotic-assisted surgery. “It translates to less time spent in the hospital for hernia treatment and decreased postoperative pain for most patients,” says Dr. Holloway.

In addition to these two major benefits, minimally invasive surgery with the da Vinci® system can also mean:

• A faster recovery
• Less trauma to the body
• Minimal scarring, compared to open surgery    
• Same-day discharge, in some cases
• Small incision sites

The da Vinci® system has allowed us to make powerful strides toward improving patient care.

We’re Ready to Care for You

Our team is here to keep you safe and get you back to the life you love. To book an appointment with Ann Holloway, DO, FACS, in Carrollwood, call 813-933-3324 or visit us here.