Safety Benefits of Robotic Hysterectomy Debated

Women considering hysterectomy surgery now have more treatment options than ever before. Among these options, new innovations in medical science and technology have produced an alternative to traditional hysterectomy surgery known as robotic hysterectomy. A minimally invasive procedure, robotic hysterectomy is performed using high-tech, robotically controlled surgical instruments. Although numerous proponents of robotic hysterectomy – especially the manufacturers of the medical equipment and machines used to perform the procedures – have touted benefits over other forms of hysterectomy surgery, several new studies are finding evidence that these benefits may be overstated.

Earlier this month, results from a second large-scale study conducted by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas revealed higher costs with no added benefits for robotic hysterectomy and that higher costs were not reflected in improvement in outcomes. The first study on the same subject was published earlier this year also raised questions about the cost-efficiency and effectiveness of robotic hysterectomy. The following provides details about researchers' findings.

Safety Benefits 
One of the most significant claims proponents of robotic hysterectomy have made is that the procedure offers considerable benefits over other forms of hysterectomy surgery. According to the recent study, however, no benefits in reducing complications were found. Complication rates for robotic hysterectomy were 8.80. Laparoscopic hysterectomy – a minimally invasive procedure performed through tiny incisions while a surgeon looks inside a patient using a camera known as a laparoscope – has a complication rate of approximately 8.85.

Faster Recovery 
Although claims have been made about faster recoveries after robotic hysterectomy, the margins are incredibly slim. When one also considers the higher costs of robotic hysterectomy, it becomes clear that they fail to deliver substantial benefits in relation to cost-efficiency.

Based on their findings, researchers have reported that the higher costs of robotic-assisted hysterectomy were not reflected in improvement in outcomes. The results of this study continue to raise questions about the overall effectiveness of robotic hysterectomy, which further highlights the importance for women to review all available options and alternatives.

If you would like more information about robotic hysterectomy, laparoscopic hysterectomy, and your options, feel free to complete a contact form or call (888) 885-8311.