Robotic-Assisted Surgery in Austin, TX

What Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Ash operates using a state-of-the-art robotic surgical system. As the American College of Surgeons explains, the robot doesn't perform the surgery on its own — Dr. Ash is in complete control at all times, guiding every movement from a console in the operating room.

The robotic system translates Dr. Ash's hand movements into precise, scaled motions of tiny instruments inside the body. This technology provides capabilities that go beyond what's possible with traditional laparoscopic surgery, including greater range of motion and enhanced visualization.

How Robotic Surgery Works

During a robotic-assisted procedure, Dr. Ash sits at a console near the operating table and controls robotic arms equipped with specialized surgical instruments. Here's what makes the technology unique:

• 3D HD visualization — The system provides a magnified, three-dimensional view of the surgical area, giving Dr. Ash a level of detail that surpasses the naked eye.
• Wristed instruments — Unlike standard laparoscopic tools, robotic instruments have a full range of wrist-like motion, allowing for greater dexterity in tight spaces.
• Tremor filtration — The system filters out any natural hand tremor, resulting in exceptionally smooth, precise movements.
• Scaled motion — Dr. Ash's movements can be scaled down for fine, delicate work that requires extreme precision.

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Procedures

Robotic-assisted surgery offers many of the same benefits as laparoscopic surgery, with additional advantages for certain procedures:

• Enhanced precision — Greater dexterity and range of motion for complex procedures
• Smaller incisions — Typically just a few small cuts, similar to laparoscopic surgery
• Less blood loss — Precise instrument control reduces tissue trauma
• Less post-operative pain — Smaller incisions and less tissue disruption
• Shorter hospital stays — Many patients go home the same day or after one night
• Faster recovery — Return to daily activities sooner compared to open surgery

Procedures Using Robotic-Assisted Techniques

Dr. Ash may recommend a robotic-assisted approach for procedures where the added precision and visualization offer a meaningful advantage, including:

• Hernia repair — particularly complex, recurrent, or ventral hernias
• Other complex abdominal procedures

During your consultation, Dr. Ash will evaluate your condition and recommend whether a robotic-assisted, laparoscopic, or open approach is best for your situation.

What to Expect

From a patient's perspective, the experience is similar to other minimally invasive procedures. You'll receive general anesthesia and small incisions will be made for the robotic instruments. The key difference is happening behind the scenes — Dr. Ash is working with enhanced tools that allow for greater precision and control.

Before surgery, Dr. Ash will thoroughly explain the procedure, answer your questions, and make sure you feel comfortable and informed about every step of the process.

Recovery After Robotic Surgery

Recovery from robotic-assisted surgery is comparable to laparoscopic procedures:

• Many patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay
• Mild discomfort at the incision sites is normal and usually manageable
• Most patients return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks
• Full recovery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the procedure

Dr. Ash provides personalized recovery guidelines and follows up to ensure your healing is on track.