Robotic surgery enables millimetric precision of movement, enhanced three-dimensional vision, and considerably smaller incisions — translating into less pain, lower risk of complications, and a faster recovery.
For complex hernias and abdominal diastasis correction, this precision is what separates a good outcome from an excellent one — both in technique and in final aesthetic result.
Technology in action.
The surgeon in command, the platform in execution.
Contrary to what the name suggests, the robotic platform does not operate on its own or make decisions. Every movement is controlled in real time by the surgeon, who remains in the operating room, seated at a console a few meters from the table, with a magnified three-dimensional view of the surgical field and direct control of the instruments.
The instruments attached to the system's arms are articulated, with a greater range of motion than the human wrist, which usually facilitates suturing and dissection in confined spaces of the abdominal cavity. The platform also filters the natural physiological tremor of the hand and allows motion scaling, so that a broad gesture by the surgeon translates into a millimetric movement at the instrument tip.
The entire procedure is performed through a few small incisions rather than a single extensive cut. The practical advantages of each approach, however, vary according to the procedure, the anatomy, and each patient's clinical condition — the choice between robotic surgery, laparoscopy, or an open approach is always individualized during the preoperative assessment.
What the platform puts in the surgeon's hands.
Magnified three-dimensional vision
The console delivers a high-definition three-dimensional image with optical magnification of the surgical field — depth that a conventional two-dimensional monitor does not reproduce.
Seven degrees of freedom
The articulated instruments operate with seven degrees of freedom, according to the manufacturer's specification — two more than a conventional laparoscopic instrument, which is rigid.
Physiological tremor filtering
The system filters the natural tremor of the hand before reproducing the movement at the instrument tip, inside the abdominal cavity.
Motion scaling
The surgeon's movement can be scaled down: a broad gesture at the console translates into a millimetric displacement at the instrument tip.
Common questions about robotic surgery.
Does the robot perform the surgery on its own?+
No. The robotic platform does not operate autonomously or make decisions: every movement is controlled in real time by the surgeon, who remains in the operating room, seated at a console, with a magnified three-dimensional view of the surgical field. The system reproduces the surgeon's hand movements in the instruments — it does not replace them.
What is the difference between robotic surgery and laparoscopy?+
Both are minimally invasive and use small incisions. In laparoscopy, the surgeon directly handles rigid instruments and follows the procedure on a two-dimensional monitor. With the robotic platform, the instruments are articulated (with a greater range of motion than the human wrist), the view is three-dimensional, and the system filters the natural physiological tremor of the hand. The choice between the two depends on the procedure, the anatomy, and each patient's clinical condition.
Is robotic surgery safer than conventional surgery?+
It would not be accurate to claim that one approach is always safer than the other. For certain procedures, the literature describes potential advantages of the robotic approach in aspects such as suturing precision and dissection in confined spaces, while open surgery remains indicated in specific situations, such as emergencies or extensive adhesions. Safety depends far more on correct indication, team experience, and the patient's condition than on the technology alone.
Can every patient be operated on robotically?+
No. The indication is individualized and takes into account the type and complexity of the procedure, prior abdominal surgeries, cardiopulmonary fitness for the anesthesia time, and the assessment of the surgical and anesthesia teams. In some cases the robotic approach is not the most appropriate one, and this is discussed openly during the consultation.
Is recovery always faster?+
Minimally invasive procedures tend to involve less pain in the immediate postoperative period and an earlier return to activities compared with open surgery, but this varies according to the extent of the operation and each patient's characteristics. There is no guaranteed recovery timeframe — progress is monitored individually.
Does robotic surgery leave smaller scars?+
In general, the robotic approach uses a few small incisions rather than a single extensive cut, which usually results in smaller scars. The final appearance, however, depends on individual healing factors and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Does health insurance cover robotic surgery?+
Coverage varies by insurer, contracted plan, and the indicated procedure — some insurers cover the robotic approach for certain surgeries and not for others. This is verified case by case with the insurer before scheduling, and the practice team advises on the required documentation.
Where does Dr. Solon perform robotic surgeries?+
At the robotic surgery center of Hospital UMC, in Uberlândia, Brazil, where the Da Vinci platform is installed. Dr. Solon Gonçalves holds certification in robotic surgery through Intuitive in partnership with Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein.
Content reviewed by Dr. Solon Gonçalves Souza Menezes — CRM-MG 79366, RQE 60355 (GI Surgery), RQE 44656 (General Surgery). Professor of Surgery at FAMED-UFU and Supervisor of the General Surgery Medical Residency Program at HC-UFU. ORCID. Last reviewed: September/2026.
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