Robotic Surgery

General Information:

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is when acid backflows from the stomach and into the esophagus. This backflow is caused by an abnormally relaxed or weakened valve (the esophageal sphincter) between the stomach and esophagus. Acid in the esophagus can cause frequent heartburn and can damage the esophageal lining. Laparoscopic fundoplication is used to treat GERD by preventing the backflow of acid into the esophagus.

Symptoms:

• Frequent heartburn
• Acid taste in back of throat or mouth (bitter- or sour-tasting fluid)
• Belching
• Pain in upper abdomen
• Worsening symptoms when bending or lying down
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Cough, hoarseness, or sore throat

Surgical Treatment:

Laparoscopic fundoplication reinforces the esophageal sphincter, preventing the excessive backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. In this procedure, the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus.

Recovery Time:

Laparoscopic fundoplication usually requires one night in the hospital. You should be able to return to normal activities within one to two weeks. You should continue to take your anti-reflux medication until your follow-up appointment.

General Information:

The gallbladder stores the bile that the liver produces and then releases it into the main bile duct, where it then drains into the small intestine to assist with digesting fats. If your body is not processing cholesterol correctly, the gallbladder can produce gallstones. Occasionally, the gallbladder will produce symptoms associated with gallstones even if stones are not present (a condition called biliary dyskinesia).

Symptoms:

• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Back pain
• Shoulder pain
• Pain after eating (specifically in the upper mid or right side of the belly)

Surgical Treatment:

Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is required due to gallstones or biliary dyskinesia. In a cholecystectomy, the gallbladder is removed laparoscopically via a small incision by the naval.

Recovery Time:

You may experience right-shoulder pain for the first day or two after surgery. Patients can resume normal activities within one or two weeks. You may experience some food intolerances, but these are usually temporary.

General information:

A hernia occurs when an organ, such as the intestines, protrudes through the abdominal wall, causing a bulge. Though hernias can occur in other areas of the body as well, they are most common in the abdominal wall. Coughing, bending, or lifting heavy objects can increase pain associated with hernias. Hernias can be caused by existing weaknesses in the abdominal wall, increased pressure within the abdomen, straining during bowel movements or urination, pregnancy, strenuous activity, or chronic coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms:

• A bulge on either side of the pubic bone that becomes more obvious when you stand upright.
• A burning, aching, or “dragging” sensation at the bulge
• Pain or discomfort in the groin area, especially when you cough, bend over, or lift heavy object
• Weakness or pressure in the groin area

If the symptoms above coincide with nausea or vomiting, fever, a suddenly intensifying pain, the darkening or reddening of the hernia bulge, or inability to move bowels or pass gas, call your doctor immediately. These symptoms can be signs of a strangulated hernia, which can be life-threatening.

Surgical Treatment:

Abdominal wall reconstruction surgery corrects abdominal weaknesses caused by recurring hernias, injuries, or non-healing wounds. Abdominal wall reconstruction requires moving abdominal tissues to redistribute the abdominal muscles. Though most hernias are not life-threatening, surgery helps prevent discomfort and potential complications.

Recovery Time:

Most patients will be able to resume normal work after one week. We recommend waiting at least two weeks to resume normal exercise. Consult with your doctor before resuming any activities.