Enhancing Surgical Precision and Patient Safety with Robotic Surgery Technology

Robotic Surgery, Made Simple for Patients and Families 

If your doctor has recommended robotic-assisted surgery, you probably have questions like: What does that even mean? Is a robot performing my operation? 

The answer: The short answer is no—your surgeon is. The da Vinci Surgical System is a cutting-edge tool that helps your surgeon perform precise, minimally invasive surgery. It doesn’t replace your doctor—it enhances their skill, control and vision. This means smaller incisions, less pain and a faster recovery for you.

At Trinity Health Michigan, we believe informed patients make confident decisions. Here’s a look at what the da Vinci system is, how it works and why it’s transforming surgery every day. 

What Is the da Vinci Surgical System? 

It’s a robotic-assisted platform that allows surgeons to operate through small incisions using tiny instruments. Every movement is controlled by a trained surgeon at a nearby console, offering high-definition, 3D views and unmatched accuracy. 

Is Robotic Surgery Safe? 

Yes. The da Vinci system has been trusted for over 20 years. At Trinity Health Michigan, our surgical teams are highly trained in using this technology safely and effectively. 

How It Works 

• You’ll be comfortably asleep under anesthesia.
• Your surgeon makes a few tiny incisions for the instruments and camera.
• From a nearby console, the surgeon guides the robotic arms with exact precision.
• A high-definition 3D camera gives a magnified, detailed view of your anatomy.
• The procedure is completed with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. 

What Types of Surgeries Can Use the da Vinci System? 

The da Vinci system is the most widely used surgical robot in our hospitals, supporting surgeons across multiple specialties, including:

• Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery
• Cardiac (heart) surgery
• Colon and Rectal surgery
• General Surgery
• Gynecology  
• Oncology (cancer) surgery
• Thoracic (chest/lung) surgery
• Urology
• Urogynecology 

Not every procedure requires robotic assistance, but when it’s appropriate, the benefits can be significant.

What Are the Benefits for Patients?

Most patients who have robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci system experience:

• Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
• Less bleeding and lower infection risk
• Shorter hospital stays
• Less pain and faster return to normal activity
• Greater surgical precision and improved outcomes 

Wondering if robotic-assisted surgery is right for you or a loved one? 

At Trinity Health Michigan, you’re in experienced hands. We have more than 270 robotic surgeons statewide who have collectively performed tens of thousands of robotic procedures across Michigan. Our teams combine advanced technology with compassionate care—so you can heal faster, with less pain and greater confidence.

Find a Robotic Surgeon Near You

This article has been reviewed by a Trinity Health Michigan provider.