• How is robotic surgery different from minimally invasive surgery?
• How does Robotic Surgery Benefit Me?
• How do I find a physician who uses the robotic surgery system?
• Is Robotic Surgery covered by insurance?
• Does robotic surgery make the surgeon unnecessary?
• Is a surgeon using robotic surgery operating in "virtual reality"?

Q: How is robotic surgery different from minimally invasive surgery?

A. Minimally invasive surgery (sometimes called laparoscopic) is a procedure that reduces trauma by operations through small incisions rather then large ones. Minimally invasive surgery is now common for certain procedures. Until now, we have not been able to use minimally invasive techniques for complex operations.

With our highly trained surgeons, and the daVinci surgical system, Providence can now use minimally invasive techniques on the most complicated procedures.

Q: How does Robotic Surgery Benefit Me?

A. Robotic Surgery at Providence Medford Medical Center offers many benefits to you including:

• reduced pain and trauma
• fewer complications
• less blood loss and need for transfusions
• less post-operative pain and discomfort
• less risk of infection
• shorter hospital stay
• faster recovery and return to your life
• less scarring and improved appearance

Q: How do I find a physician who uses the robotic surgery system?

A. Please refer to our Trained Physicians page or call us at (541) 732-ROBO (7626).

Q: Is Robotic Surgery covered by insurance?

A. Robotic Surgery is categorized as robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery, so any insurance that covers minimally invasive surgery generally covers robotic surgery. This is true for widely held insurance plans like Medicare. It is important to note that your coverage will depend on your plan and benefits package. For specifics regarding reimbursement for robotic surgery, please call the Reimbursement Hotline at 1-888-868-4647 ext. 3128.

Q. Does robotic surgery make the surgeon unnecessary?

A. On the contrary, robotic surgery enables surgeons to be more precise, advancing their technique and enhancing their capability in performing complex minimally invasive surgery. The robotic system replicates the surgeon's movements in real time. It cannot be programmed, nor can it make decisions on its own to move in any way or perform any type of surgical maneuver without the surgeon's input.

Q. Is a surgeon using robotic surgery operating in "virtual reality"?

A. Although seated at a console a few feet away from the patient, the surgeon views an actual image of the surgical field while operating in real-time, through tiny incisions, using miniaturized, wristed instruments. At no time does the surgeon see a virtual image or program/command the system to perform any maneuver on its own/outside of the surgeon's direct, real-time control.