Robotic Surgery (Da Vinci)

Overview

The Da Vinci Surgical System is a robotic platform that Mr Nguyen controls from a nearby console — he is in the same room, fully in control at every moment. The robot does not act on its own. What it does is translate Mr Nguyen's hand movements into smaller, smoother, more precise motions inside your body, through several small keyhole openings in your abdomen.

The system provides a magnified 3D view — like looking through a very high-powered pair of binoculars into your body — and its instruments can bend and rotate in ways that ordinary keyhole instruments cannot. This extra precision is especially important for rectal cancer surgery, rectal prolapse repair (rectopexy), and hernia repair, where working in a confined space and avoiding delicate nerves is critical to your long-term quality of life.

Who needs this procedure?

• Rectal cancer surgery — where working precisely in the pelvis is essential to preserve the nerves that control bladder and sexual function
• Robotic ventral mesh rectopexy — fixing a rectal prolapse (when the rectum slides out of position) from the inside
• Complex inguinal hernia repair using advanced robotic techniques (eTEP or robotic TAPP) — particularly for large or recurrent hernias
• Hartmann's reversal or ileostomy closure — reconnecting the bowel after a previous operation where a bag was needed
• Diverticular disease with significant scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvis from previous infections or surgery
• Repeat bowel surgery where previous scars make keyhole access more technically demanding

Benefits

• A magnified 3D view inside your body — up to 10 times normal size — so Mr Nguyen can see critical structures clearly, including the fine nerves that control bladder and sexual function
• Instruments with wristed movement — they can bend and rotate at angles that straight keyhole instruments can't, making delicate work in tight spaces far more precise
• Better nerve preservation in the pelvis — which translates to better outcomes for bladder control and sexual function after operations like rectal cancer surgery
• The robot also filters out the natural tremor in any surgeon's hands, adding an extra layer of precision for very fine work
• All the same benefits as regular keyhole surgery — smaller cuts, less post-operative pain, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay compared with open surgery

Risks & considerations

• Switching to keyhole or open surgery — if the robotic approach can't safely continue, Mr Nguyen will convert to conventional keyhole or open surgery. This is not a failure — it's the right call when it happens, and your safety always comes first.
• Port site hernia — a small hernia can form at one of the instrument entry points. This is uncommon — less than 1% — and can be repaired if needed.
• Anastomotic leak — if the bowel is joined during the operation, the join has a 3–5% chance of not healing perfectly, which may require further treatment or a temporary stoma.
• Pelvic nerve injury — when operating in the pelvis for low rectal cancer, there is a 2–5% risk of some effect on bladder or sexual function. The robotic system is specifically designed to minimise this risk, and Mr Nguyen will discuss your personal risk at consultation.
• Equipment issues — instrument malfunctions are rare, and conventional keyhole instruments are always available as a back-up.
• General anaesthetic risks — the anaesthetist will discuss these with you at your pre-operative assessment.

Before the procedure

• Bowel preparation (a laxative drink) if directed by Mr Nguyen — not all robotic procedures require this
• A conversation about the ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) programme — what to expect with your diet, getting moving, and managing pain after the operation
• A thorough discussion about the specific procedure you're having, so you can give informed consent with a clear understanding of what's involved

On the day

• You will arrive on the morning of surgery and be admitted to the ward; the anaesthetist will send you off to sleep
• The small keyhole ports are placed in your abdomen, and the Da Vinci robotic arms are docked and connected
• Mr Nguyen moves to the surgical console — a few feet away — where he controls the robot's arms with hand controllers and foot pedals, watching through a high-definition 3D screen the entire time
• The procedure is completed under direct robotic vision; Mr Nguyen is in full control throughout
• The robot is disconnected, the port sites are closed, and you are moved to recovery
• You will be encouraged to have a light meal and get up for a short walk on the same day as surgery — this is part of the recovery plan and helps you heal faster

Recovery & aftercare

• Day 1: You will be up and walking, moving from liquids to soft food and then normal meals as you feel ready.
• Days 2–4: Most patients having planned colorectal procedures are ready to go home within this window — sore but comfortable and mobile.
• 4–6 weeks: You can return to desk work and driving once you are comfortable and off any strong pain relief.
• 8 weeks: Most patients are back to full activity, including exercise.
• Exact recovery milestones vary depending on which procedure you had — Mr Nguyen will give you specific guidance for your situation.
• Mr Nguyen will see you for a follow-up review 2–6 weeks after surgery — this appointment is provided at no charge.

Related patient guides

Helpful articles written for patients and their families on topics related to this procedure.