Historical Background
In addition to offering a full complement of minimally invasive urologic surgery, Genito-Urinary Surgeons is proud to be Northwest Ohio's leader in providing da Vinci™ assisted robotic surgery.

In 2003, our surgeons performed the first da Vinci™ robotic prostatectomy in Northwest Ohio. We have the largest experience of da Vinci™ prostate surgery in Northwest Ohio.

We also utilize the da Vinci™ for kidney reconstructive surgery to treat urinary obstruction, and have performed the first da Vinci™ robot assisted pelvic reconstruction for incontinence and prolapse in Northwest Ohio.

The da Vinci™ System
The da Vinci™ system utilizes cutting edge robotic technology to enhance minimally invasive surgery. The surgeon is able to visualize the operative field with 10x magnification and in 3-dimensions—a vast improvement over traditional laparoscopic surgery. The da Vinci™ system can accurately translate the surgeon's precise hand motions using 'wristed' laparoscopic instruments. This allows for the performance of complex dissection and reconstruction through a few small incisions. This may potentially allow our surgeons to preserve the nerves that help with erections and also allow for precise reconnection of the bladder to the urethra to help facilitate urinary control.

Since the da Vinci™ surgery is laparoscopic the amount of blood loss (specifically for prostate surgery) is significantly less. This is due to the use of CO2 gas in order to 'insufflate' the abdomen thereby continually applying a slight amount of pressure uniformly throughout the surgical field limiting bleeding. The need for transfusions, which can be common-place in open surgery, is virtually eliminated using the da Vinci™ system.

Potential Benefit

• Significantly less bleeding
• Less pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Fewer days with a urinary catheter
• Less interruption to bladder and bowel functions
• Faster return to normal activities
• More accurate dissection and reconstruction with possible better outcomes