Da Vinci X: what is this four-armed robot that assists the surgeons at the Toulouse Lautrec clinic?

“It is an extension of our arm, the robot allows us to perform more precise movements,” says Doctor Reverdy, surgeon at the Toulouse Lautrec clinic. This clinic in Albi has been using the da Vinci X robot for operations on people suffering from severe obesity for a little over a year now. An advantage for the surgeon: “We are more comfortable, we have fewer constraints. The machine allows us to always put ourselves in the right position. This comfort is important, we are less tired after the operation”.

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The robot is equipped with 3D vision giving the surgeon the impression of total immersion in the operating field: “The movements are multiplied, more ample and precise”.

Nearly 100 patients operated on with the help of the robot

Since June 2023, nearly 100 patients have benefited from these operations carried out using Da Vinci X. This operating method is used for interventions such as reducing the volume of the stomach (sleeve gastrectomy).

“We are still working, we are just helped by the robot,” insists the doctor. This surgical robot has four articulated arms. With a console and joysticks, the surgeon manipulates da Vinci X remotely, using two joysticks and pedals to control and select which arms to use. It reproduces the movements of the surgeon's hands, from the console to the robotic arms. No worries for patients, the doctor remains nearby for safety, in the event of a complication.

Faster recovery for patients

The use of the robot is beneficial for the surgeon, but also for the patients. It allows them to recover more quickly after surgery, experience fewer postoperative complications, have smaller scars and less pain. Before surgery, the surgeon must determine whether patients are eligible and have no medical contraindications. “We have very few people who are reluctant,” he explains. The operation time remains the same, around 30 minutes, depending on the doctor.

Doctor Reverdy is not the only one using the robot in the clinic. Doctors also use it for urology operations. In 2023, 280 interventions were carried out using this robot in this specialty.