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Clinical Validation

"We believe, and the surgeons who responded to our survey agree, that the robotically assisted hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy is superior to any currently available minimally invasive anastomotic technique."

Garth Jacobsen, M.D., Robert Berger, M.D. and Santiago Horgan, M.D. in
Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques

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Gastric Bypass

Overview

The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most technically demanding bariatric operations. The procedure requires advanced skills such as anastomotic suturing, knot tying, stapling and two-handed tissue manipulation that surgeons typically do not gain with more common laparoscopic procedures.

One of the most difficult tasks involved in the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is constructing the gastrojejunostomy. The learning curve for performing the anastomosis may be the most important aspect of the procedure since anastomotic leaks are associated with potentially high rates of mortality and morbidities, including re-operation and sepsis. Additionally, suboptimal construction of the gastrojejunostomy may lead to an anastomotic stricture requiring post-operative intervention, including anastomotic dilatation.

The da Vinci® Surgical System delivers enhanced surgical capabilities necessary to master the "hand-sewn" anastomotic technique. These include high-resolution 3D visualization, Intuitive Motion and exclusive EndoWrist® instrumentation.

The da Vinci System's exclusive 3D visualization provides a brilliant, highly magnified view of the operative field, enabling safer, more accurate identification and navigation of tissue planes. An intuitive, ergonomic interface allows physicians to fluidly translate open suturing skills to minimally invasive surgery, reducing the barriers to entry for those considering a laparoscopic approach. Robotic instrument control can also greatly minimize surgeon fatigue and patient trauma that can result from using the abdominal wall for leverage during surgery on high-BMI patients. Moreover, articulating EndoWrist Instruments allow complete wrist dexterity, providing control and precision when suturing the gastrojejunostomy.

da Vinci Gastric Bypass – Potential Benefits

  • Reduced risk of anastomotic leak and stricture
  • Shorter procedure times for high-BMI patients
  • Improved surgeon comfort

EndoWrist Instruments Optimized for da Vinci Gastric Bypass

Intuitive Harmonic™ Curved Shears

  • Precise cutting and coagulation
  • Fewer instrument exchanges
  • Minimal lateral thermal damage