Robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy is a surgical technique performed to correct pelvic organ prolapse. When the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue that support the pelvic organs are weakened, the pelvic support is lost, resulting in protrusion of the bladder, urethra, cervix and rectum. This is called pelvic organ prolapse.

Women with pelvic organ prolapse can experience excessive pressure in the lower abdomen associated with a bulging or aching sensation, difficulty in urination or bowel evacuation, urinary frequency or urgency, urinary tract infections or painful intercourse. If the symptoms are mild, non-surgical treatment options such as pelvic floor exercises, vaginal pessaries (a device that is inserted in the vagina to support the pelvic floor) and lifestyle changes may be helpful.

Surgery can be considered in patients with severe symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. There are different types of procedures to address a specific prolapse. The aim of pelvic floor reconstruction is to restore normal anatomy and function of the pelvic organs.

Robotic systems are becoming increasingly popular in the medical fraternity owing to the unique advantages including the precision, improved visualisation and safety.

Most of the complex urologic surgical procedures may be performed with the da Vinci^® robotic system. Traditional open surgery uses a large incision and patients may experience complications such as pain, damage to the surrounding organs and nerves and long recovery period. In contrast, the da Vinci^® robotic system is the most effective and least invasive technique which ensures faster recovery with minimal pain and minimal risks as compared with traditional open surgery.

The da Vinci^® surgical system consists of a surgeon’s console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system (3D camera) and miniaturised EndoWrist surgical instruments.

While performing the surgical procedure your surgeon will be seated at the da Vinci^® console and is able to view a magnified, high-resolution 3D image of the area to be operated on. To access the surgical site your surgeon introduces miniaturized EndoWrist instruments through a few tiny incisions. These instruments help your surgeon perform the procedure with precision and control. Your surgeon uses master controls that function similar to forceps and in turn da Vinci^® responds by immediate translation of surgeon’s directions into precise movements of miniaturised instruments.

The da Vinci^® robotic system offers several advantages over the traditional surgery including less pain, low risk of infection, fewer complications, less scarring, less blood loss, short hospital stay and faster recovery.

The da Vinci^® Robot System is considered safe and effective, but may not be appropriate for everyone. Always discuss with your doctor about all treatment options suitable for you, as well as the benefits and risks.