Da Vinci Surgical System & Robotic Surgery

Your surgical journey begins with a thorough consultation with your Women's HealthFirst provider. Together, you will review your diagnosis, discuss the recommended procedure, and talk through all available options — including non-surgical alternatives — so you can make a fully informed decision. 

Pre-operative preparation typically includes blood work, any necessary imaging, a review of your current medications, and fasting instructions for the day of surgery. Your provider will also discuss anesthesia, what to expect upon waking, and who to contact if you have questions in the days before your procedure. Our team is available to address concerns at any point in the process.

Da Vinci robotic surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Your surgeon sits at a console in the operating room, using hand and foot controls to guide robotic instruments inserted through small incisions in your abdomen. A high-definition 3D camera provides magnified visualization of the surgical field throughout. You are monitored by an anesthesiologist and a full surgical team from the moment you enter the OR.

Most robotic gynecologic procedures at Women's HealthFirst are completed in one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Your surgeon will have reviewed your imaging and surgical plan in advance, and the robotic system translates their precise movements into the accurate, controlled actions needed to complete the procedure safely.

Most patients undergoing Da Vinci robotic surgery at Women's HealthFirst are discharged the same day or after a one-night stay, depending on the procedure. You will receive detailed post-operative care instructions before leaving the hospital, including activity restrictions, wound care, medications, and what symptoms to watch for.

Recovery from robotic surgery is typically significantly shorter than from open procedures. Most patients return to light activity within 1 to 2 weeks and resume full normal activity within 2 to 4 weeks. Your Women's HealthFirst provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to review your recovery and answer any questions.

Yes. Da Vinci robotic surgery has an extensive safety record and is used in hospitals and surgical centers worldwide. Your surgeon is in complete control of every movement throughout the procedure. The robotic system enhances precision but does not operate independently. At Women's HealthFirst, our surgeons have performed thousands of robotic procedures with proven outcomes.

No. The Da Vinci system is a surgical tool, not an autonomous robot. Your surgeon controls every instrument from a console in the operating room, guiding each movement in real time. The system translates those movements into precise, steady actions inside your body. Your surgical team is present and monitoring throughout.

Both use small incisions and a camera, but the Da Vinci system provides the surgeon with enhanced 3D visualization, a greater range of instrument motion, and greater precision than standard laparoscopic tools allow. For complex cases, robotic surgery often produces better outcomes with less tissue disruption.

Recovery varies by procedure. Most patients return to light activity within 1 to 2 weeks and resume full normal activity within 2 to 4 weeks. This timeline is significantly shorter than recovery from open surgery, which can take six to eight weeks. Your provider will give you specific guidance based on your procedure and individual health.

Many robotic gynecologic procedures at Women's HealthFirst are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home the same day. Some procedures, such as robotic hysterectomy, may require a one-night hospital stay. Your provider will let you know what to expect for your specific procedure before surgery is scheduled.

It depends on the procedure. Robotic myomectomy, endometriosis excision, and pelviscopy are all designed to preserve fertility. Robotic hysterectomy and endometrial ablation, by contrast, are not compatible with future pregnancy. Your surgeon will discuss fertility implications clearly and help you choose the approach that aligns with your goals.

A hysterectomy removes the uterus entirely. A myomectomy removes only the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. Myomectomy is the preferred option for women who wish to preserve fertility or want to avoid hysterectomy. Your provider will help you understand which procedure is appropriate for your diagnosis and goals.

Most major insurance plans cover robotic gynecologic surgery when it is medically indicated, at the same benefit level as conventional surgery. Your specific coverage will depend on your plan, your diagnosis, and the procedure being performed. Our team can help verify your benefits before your procedure so you know what to expect.