Robotic surgery was invented to minimize complications from alternative conventional surgery by providing a 3-D view. Although it works similarly to laparoscopic surgery, it follows the same procedures of an open surgery using rigid instruments for coagulating the tissues. While this surgery method is considered safe, certain complications are evident from time to time. These complications often arise from inadequate expertise on abdominal entry incision closures. Learn more about these complications and how they occur during robotic surgery closures.
Rhabdomyolysis
Clinical rhabdomyolysis occurs mainly in patients exposed to a robotic surgery closure for a long time, especially in the beginning. The serum creatine kinase (CK) increases after the surgery, but its elevation and isolation are insufficient to predict injury.
Ocular Complications
A steep Trendelenburg position and a pneumoperitoneum heighten the intra-ocular pressure and reduce ocular perfusion and visual impairment from optic neuropathy. Corneal abrasion is common in robotic procedures compared to open pelvic procedures.
Vascular Complications
Vascular injuries are life-threatening during robotic surgery closure. They can show immediately and are recognizable in the recovery room or the first 24 hours after an operation with a drop in blood count. Major vascular injuries result from placing the Veress needle or primary trocar. Instruments like scissors, stapling devices, and electrosurgery can also damage vessels.
Bowel Complications
Scissors causing bowel perforations and tearing may not be recognizable during surgery, resulting in severe postoperative abdominal pain. This results in patients not making a normal recovery and may develop severe illnesses immediately. Accompanying electrosurgery with hemostasis and adhesiolysis can delay perforation in patients.
Access and Insufflation Complications
Extraperitoneal and transperitoneal approaches are possible for pelvic and retroperitoneal procedures. Access complications result from visceral and vascular injuries upon trocar placement or insufflation disorders as per the approach and technique.
While robotic surgery closure has advanced medical technology, it still has risks and complications. Unintended injuries may happen during robotic surgery but not recognizing these injuries can be serious, leading to long-term problems. By understanding these complications, surgeons can formulate clear steps to minimize them.
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