Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery Institute

Robotic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon uses a computer-controlled robot to assist in performing the procedure. The robot allows for more precise movements, often resulting in smaller incisions, less pain and quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgery.

In robotic surgery, the surgeon sits at a console and controls the robot's arms, which hold surgical instruments. The robot translates the surgeon’s hand movements into smaller, precise movements inside the patient's body. A high-definition, 3D camera provides a magnified view of the surgical area.

Yes, robotic surgery is considered safe when performed by a trained and experienced surgeon. It has been successfully used in many types of surgeries. However, like any surgery, there are risks, so it's important to discuss these with your surgeon.

The benefits can include smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain, a lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery and less scarring. Additionally, the enhanced precision can be beneficial for complex procedures.

Robotic surgery can be used for a variety of procedures, including but not limited to bariatric, head/neck, thoracic, abdominal, hernia and GERD. It is often used for procedures that require a high degree of precision.

No, the robot does not perform the surgery on its own. The surgeon controls every movement of the robot and is present throughout the entire procedure. The robot is simply a tool that helps the surgeon perform the surgery with greater precision.

This depends on your specific condition, overall health and the type of surgery you need. Your surgeon will evaluate your situation and discuss whether robotic surgery is the best option for you.

Recovery from robotic surgery is often quicker than traditional surgery due to smaller incisions and less trauma to the body. Many patients experience less pain and return to normal activities sooner.

Risks are similar to those of traditional surgery, including infection, bleeding and reactions to anesthesia. There is also a small risk of complications related to the robotic equipment, but these are rare.

Most insurance plans cover robotic surgery if it is medically necessary and the procedure is covered under your policy. It's important to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.

Robotic surgery has been in use since the early 2000s. The technology has advanced significantly since then, with improvements in precision, safety and the range of procedures that can be performed.

The length of the surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. In general, robotic surgeries may take a little longer than traditional surgeries, but the benefits often outweigh the longer operating time.

On the day of surgery, you will go through standard pre-operative procedures, including anesthesia. The surgery itself will involve the use of robotic technology, and afterwards, you'll spend some time in recovery before being discharged, depending on the procedure and your overall condition.

Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery Institute is built upon extensive experience. Our surgeons are some of the top performing robotic surgeons in the South and train the region’s best. As a pillar of innovation, we have the largest fleet of surgical robots in Louisiana and continue to adopt the latest technology and techniques.

• Brent W. Allain Jr., MD, FASMBS
• Mark G. Hausmann, MD, FACS, FASMBS
• Kenneth P. Kleinpeter Jr., MD, FACS, FASMBS
• John H. Lyons III, MD, FACS
• Mo Al Efishat, MD, FSSO

• Kelly Finan, MD, MSPH, FACS, FASCRS
• Nathan P. Hite, MD

• W. Bradley Kimbrough III, MD, FACS
• Stephen B. Manale, MD, FACS
• James N. Williams, MD

• Jason P. Bridges, MD

• Mo Al Efishat, MD, FACS, FSSO

• Emily V. Cassidy, MD
• Nicholas D. LeBlanc, MD