Robotic Surgery vs. Laparoscopic Surgery: Which is better for Cancer Treatment?

In the past, open surgery was the norm, where a surgeon would perform an incision in the patient’s body and then go through a series of steps to remove any benign or malignant tumours. The process required too much time and was often associated with a high incidence rate of complications. However, it is now possible to perform cancer surgery using minimally invasive methods such as Laparoscopic Surgery and Robotic Surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery has been in existence for almost the last two decades. These techniques involve inserting a camera through a keyhole incision to reach any major target organ or reach the cancer site. These methods are less painful and have fewer risks of complications.

Difference Between Laparoscopic Surgery & Robotic Surgery

There are many differences between the two types of surgery. The main difference is in the instruments and how they work.

• Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic Surgery is a technique that is used to perform surgery through small keyhole incisions in the abdominal wall. It is done with a hand-held instrument called a laparoscope, which helps the Laparoscopic cancer surgeon navigate through the body. It is used to help with several conditions including but not limited to hernias, ovarian cysts, and various cancers.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery

• Reduces risk of injury during the procedure
• Reduces pain during recovery
• A shorter hospital stay
• Reduced use of anaesthetic drugs
• Reduced wound infections and complications
• Less blood loss and faster recovery time
• Minimized pain and discomfort
• Helps patients to return to normal activities soon
• Better cosmetic results

• Robotic Surgery

Robotic Surgery refers to a surgical procedure where surgeons use robotic arms like laparoscopic instruments to carry out operations and procedures. It allows surgeons to see well inside the body so that they can avoid damaging normal tissues or organs during surgery which are crucial for patients. Robotic surgery can be performed in heart bypass surgeries, liver transplants, prostate cancer surgeries, and many more complex surgical procedures. Robotic surgery can help with speed, accuracy, and control during a procedure, making the cost of robotic surgeries cheaper for patients. Robotic Surgery has somewhat similar advantages as Laparoscopic Surgeries for patients. However, there are distinct advantages points that you must consider while choosing your treatment procedure.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery 

• Speed, accuracy, and control during a procedure.
• Enhanced range of motion
• Greater precision as compared to laparoscopic surgery
• Less expensive than traditional surgery
• Minimizes post-operation complications

Which is better for cancer treatment?

This is a controversial question. Laparoscopic surgery offers minimal incisions and less pain, which makes it an attractive option for patients. Robotic surgery, on the other hand, provides better visualization and dexterity in the surgical field with fewer complications. It is mostly preferred in cases where the surgeon needs to operate in difficult narrow spaces in the body.  Also, Robotic surgery is also a less invasive option for those who are apprehensive with the idea of surgery and the recovery time is less.  Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive procedure but is more time-consuming.

The decision of which type is best for cancer surgery depends on various factors such as the patient’s health status, surgeon’s preference, experience with surgery, type of cancer, time constraints, and available technology. You must consult the laparoscopic and Robotic cancer surgery hospital to seek treatment.

It is important to note that both of these surgeries are excellent in the majority of cases. Hence, whichever surgical option your doctor or you choose, do not worry. Start your treatment at the best Robotic and Laparoscopic cancer surgery hospital in Pune. We are the pioneer in Laparoscopic surgery in India and the world’s first hospital to Versius Surgical Robotic System. With expert Oncologists, OncoSurgeons across the world, you can trust us for the best Cancer treatment!