Does a robot perform my operation?

No. The surgeon performs the operation using instruments controlled from a console in the room.

Is robotic always better than laparoscopic?

No. It offers advantages in specific situations, particularly fine work in confined spaces.

Does the robotic approach change recovery?

Recovery follows the operation performed more than the platform used. Both are minimally invasive approaches through small incisions.

Procedures

Robotic Surgery

Dr. Good has performed nearly 2,000 robotic procedures and has trained other surgeons on the robotic platform as a proctor for Intuitive Surgical since 2014. Robotic surgery uses small incisions, magnified three-dimensional visualization, and articulated instruments that rotate like the human wrist. These features can assist the surgeon with visualization and instrument control in confined operative spaces. The surgeon makes every decision and every movement.

What the platform is and is not

The word robotic misleads people, so it is worth being clear. The system does not operate independently.

Dr. Good operates using the da Vinci Xi and da Vinci 5 surgical systems.

What it genuinely changes

There are many advantages of robotic technology and instrumentation.

Laparoscopic instruments are straight, with the ability to rotate and grasp at the tip, and pivot at the abdominal wall. Robotic instruments have wristed motion along the length of the bottom portion of the instrument as well as the tip, which allows surgical versatility that rigid instruments cannot. Tremor is filtered and fine movement is scaled. For suturing deep in a confined space, that matters.

A stable camera under the surgeon's own control
Ergonomics that reduce surgeon fatigue on longer cases

What it does not change

Choosing the right operation, recognizing anatomy correctly, and knowing when to stop are not functions of the platform.

It also does not make an unnecessary operation appropriate. Technology is a reason to do a chosen operation well, never a reason to do one at all.

When it is chosen

Operating within the hiatus, complex hernia repair, and situations involving previous surgery and scar tissue are examples where the added depth, dexterity, and visualization are quite advantageous. The approach to your case is something you will discuss in detail with your surgeon prior to any operation.

What it means for you

A robotic operation is a minimally invasive surgery. Access is through small incisions, and recovery expectations follow the operation performed and may be enhanced by the platform used to perform it.

Robotic surgeries are performed under general anesthesia and have similar preoperative preparation and postoperative instructions.

Dr. Wanda Good is a general surgeon with additional fellowship training in Advanced Robotic, Bariatric and Anti-Reflux Surgery, as well as endoscopic evaluation and bariatric procedures.

This page is educational information, not medical advice. What is right for you is decided in consultation, after a review of your history, your symptoms, and your testing.

Common questions

Does a robot perform my operation?: No. The surgeon performs the operation using instruments controlled from a console in the room.
Is robotic always better than laparoscopic?: No. It offers advantages in specific situations, particularly fine work in confined spaces.
Does the robotic approach change recovery?: Recovery follows the operation performed more than the platform used. Both are minimally invasive approaches through small incisions.

Next step

Ask which approach fits your case, and why. You should get a direct answer.

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Last reviewed August 24, 2026