23 May How Robotic Surgery for Gynaecology Works
If you’ve heard about robotic surgery but aren’t quite sure what it involves, you’re not alone. It’s often imagined as futuristic or fully automated — but in reality, robotic surgery is simply a tool that helps your surgeon perform operations with greater precision, control, and care.
In gynaecology, robotic-assisted surgery is changing how we approach complex procedures. Whether it’s a hysterectomy, myomectomy, or endometriosis treatment, robotic systems like the da Vinci Surgical System offer a minimally invasive alternative with faster recovery times and fewer complications.
So how exactly does robotic surgery work in gynaecology — and what does it mean for your care?
The Technology Behind Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery doesn’t mean a robot is operating on you independently. Instead, the technology enhances the surgeon’s skills by allowing for finer, steadier movements through a computer-assisted system.
The da Vinci system, currently the most advanced and widely used platform, includes:
- A surgical console where your gynaecologist sits and controls the robotic arms
- A robotic tower with four arms — three for surgical instruments and one for a high-definition 3D camera
- Miniature instruments that mimic the natural movements of the human hand, but with far greater range and control
During the procedure, Dr Kent Kuswanto remains fully in control. From the console, he sees a magnified 3D view of the surgical site and uses handheld controls to guide the robotic arms with extreme precision — filtering out even the slightest natural tremor.
Why Robotic Surgery Matters for Gynaecological Care
What makes robotic surgery particularly valuable for gynaecology is the combination of precision and access in difficult-to-reach areas. Conditions like fibroids, adenomyosis, and endometriosis often require complex surgical management, especially when fertility or organ preservation is a concern.
Using robotic tools, surgeons can:
- Operate through smaller incisions
- Navigate delicate pelvic structures with less tissue trauma
- Improve accuracy when removing fibroids or endometrial growths
- Perform difficult procedures (e.g. in patients with a higher BMI or complex anatomy) that might otherwise require open surgery
This often means faster recovery, less pain, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.
What to Expect as a Patient
If you’re scheduled for robotic surgery, here’s what the experience typically involves:
- Smaller incisions: Usually 4–5 keyhole cuts, or sometimes a single incision near the belly button
- Shorter hospital stays: Many patients go home within 24–48 hours
- Less pain post-op: Smaller incisions and more precise movements reduce trauma
- Quicker return to normal activities: Many return to light duties within 1–3 weeks, depending on the procedure
The benefits don’t stop there — robotic surgery may also reduce the risk of infection and blood loss, and lead to less visible scarring.
Why Isn’t Robotic Surgery Offered Everywhere?
Despite its benefits, robotic gynaecological surgery isn’t yet available in all hospitals. The technology requires significant investment, and access is currently limited to certain private hospitals and specialist centres.
Additionally, not every surgeon is trained in robotic techniques. This is why choosing an experienced gynaecologist with a high surgical volume — like Dr Kent Kuswanto — can make a real difference in outcomes.
Dr Kuswanto is not only an early adopter of robotic surgery in Australia but also a da Vinci system proctor, training other specialists to use the platform safely and effectively.
When Is Robotic Surgery a Good Option?
Robotic surgery may be suitable for:
It’s particularly helpful in complex or high-risk cases — such as when the uterus is enlarged, fibroids are deeply embedded, or previous surgeries have caused internal scarring.
The best way to know if it’s right for you is to speak with a gynaecologist who regularly performs robotic procedures.
FAQs About Robotic Gynaecological Surgery
Does the robot do the surgery on its own?
No — your surgeon is fully in control at all times, guiding the instruments from a nearby console.
How long does recovery take after robotic surgery?
Most patients return to daily activities within 1–3 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Is robotic surgery safe?
Yes. In fact, robotic surgery often results in fewer complications and better precision compared to open surgery.
Will I have visible scars?
Scars are usually minimal and may be hidden in natural skin folds, such as the belly button.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how robotic surgery works can take some of the mystery and anxiety out of the process. It’s not a robot doing the operation — it’s your surgeon using advanced tools to deliver more precise, gentle, and effective care.
If you’ve been told you need surgery and want to explore your options, consider discussing robotic surgery with a qualified expert. Contact Dr Kent Kuswanto to learn whether this approach is right for your needs.