Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Thrombectomy
The Miriam Hospital surgeons made history by completing the first robot-assisted inferior vena cava thrombectomy, robot-assisted radical nephrectomy with intraoperative ultrasound in Southeastern New England.
The multidisciplinary team utilizes urologic, vascular, anesthesia, and nursing specialties. This joint approach leads to improved safety during the surgical procedure.
This procedure is typically performed using open surgery for patients with a large renal mass with tumor thrombus extending into the inferior vena cava. The high-risk, intricate surgery completed in a robot-assisted fashion allows for a shorter hospital stay, significantly smaller incision, decreased risk of bleeding and faster recovery for patients.
The Miriam Hospital is pleased to be one of the very few institutes throughout New England to offer this advanced surgical modality.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
The several benefits of minimally invasive surgery include:
- Smaller surgical incisions of one inch or less
- Increased potential to preserve function
- Less blood loss
- Reduced postoperative pain and discomfort
- Less risk of infection
- Less scarring
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster overall recovery
- Better outcomes