The da Vinci 5 Robot Is Set To Transform Bariatric Care: Developed by Intuitive Surgical, the da Vinci 5 robotic surgery system is poised to transform bariatric services for patients and surgeons alike. It comes with over 150 design upgrades and 10,000 times the computing power of its predecessor (the da Vinci 4). Surgeons operate on patients by controlling the robot’s interactive arms from a remote console within the operating room—this improves patient outcomes, and allows surgeons to work with greater ease and accuracy. On top of that, surgeons can also record video footage of surgeries to integrate into patient electronic medical records (EMRs). This provides a clear record of the operation that can be used to improve follow-up care.
How does the da Vinci 5 work exactly?
During a bariatric procedure, the surgeon looks at the eye-level monitor, and uses the hand controls and foot pedals to move the robot’s arms and perform the surgery. As the da Vinci 5 offers haptic feedback, the surgeon can gauge how much pressure they apply, so they can be as gentle as possible. In fact, surgeons who use the technology apply over 40% less force on the tissue on average. Additionally, the system also stabilizes vibrations and tremors to enhance the surgical precision even further.
As this technology can help surgeons perform the procedure with greater accuracy, the tissue sustains less damage and trauma overall. Bariatric surgery already has a low risk (4%) of major complications, but the da Vinci 5 is designed to improve patient safety even further. Patients ultimately have lower levels of pain and scarring post-op, as well as a lower risk of complications. In short: the da Vinci 5 spells faster recovery times and better outcomes—which is great news for patients.
EMR integration for patient-centred care
The da Vinci 5 also integrates with the Intuitive Hub video platform, so bariatric surgeons can record procedures and automatically upload the footage to patients’ electronic medical records (EMRs). EMRs are another powerful innovation in bariatric services, and 65% of medical professionals who already use them say they directly benefit patients. This is because EMRs tend to be more accurate than paper-based records. Surgeons (and all other healthcare providers) can then easily access the detailed and comprehensive patient information needed to deliver the best care possible. Additionally, patients also benefit from this EMR integration: they can watch relevant surgical videos in order to better understand the procedure, which helps them feel more prepared and less anxious.
Device management to protect patient data
Yet, no matter how beneficial video platforms and EMRs may be, they do raise valid security concerns. In 2024, 53% of the U.S. population was affected by a healthcare data breach with a record 184,111,469 records exposed in total. That means responsible electronic device management should be a priority for surgeons to keep patient and hospital data secure. This becomes all the more important when you consider that portable company devices, such as, laptops are stolen every 53 seconds. Policies should therefore be in place to facilitate smooth and fast returns of company devices from terminated employees. This is a simple yet effective way to protect against financial loss and data breaches that can easily happen if devices are allowed to go unaccounted for.
Fortunately, the Intuitive Hub also stores videos and case information in line with data privacy laws and patient data sharing agreements. This is the case for both data stored on local servers or in the cloud. Recorded footage can then be shared legally with other surgeons for them to learn from.
Greater ease and comfort for surgeons
The da Vinci 5 also simplifies bariatric procedures for surgeons as they have complete control over the console. This means surgeons no longer have to rely so much on staff for help during the operation, and the team’s overall workload is reduced. But, when staff do need to step in, the controls are also easy for them to access. In addition to this ease of use, the da Vinci 5 also keeps surgeon’s comfortable as they work. The console’s ergonomic design prevents musculoskeletal issues and repetitive strain injury—which is an issue for at least seven in ten surgeons across all specialties. Surgeons no longer have to strain their arms, shoulders, wrists, or even their abs as they operate. Instead, they sit comfortably at the console as the robotic arms do the brunt of the physical work.
The da Vinci 5, complete with EMR integration, is set to transform bariatric surgery and services for patients and surgeons alike. Patients can benefit from an accurate procedure that results in better outcomes and faster recovery times. Surgeons, on the other hand, can perform precise surgeries without risk of strain and discomfort. Thanks to this exciting innovation, the future of bariatric surgery now look brighter than ever.
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