Robotic CABG Surgery – FAQ’s
1. What is Robotic CABG surgery? How is it performed?
Robotic CABG surgery is a procedure where the heart surgeon makes a few tiny (keyhole) incisions between the ribs. The surgeon then inserts a small camera and small robotic arms through these small cuts. Specialized tools are used to stabilize the part of the heart on which surgeon works, in a precise manner with a magnified view.
2. How is this different from conventional heart surgery? What is the cost of heart surgery in Delhi?
Conventional heart surgery is performed by splitting the central chest bone and with or without placing the patient on Heart Lung machine to stop the heart while surgery is performed. In Robotic assist CABG, surgery is performed through tiny cuts without any cutting of the bone. The cost of heart surgery varies from patient to patient depending on patient’s condition and declared by the doctor.
3. What are the benefits of Robotic CABG surgery?
Robotic CABG surgery benefits are as follows:
- Reduced tissue trauma and wound infection
- Reduced blood loss, thus avoiding all risks of blood
- transfusion.
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Reduced hospital stay, 3 to 4 days
- Early return to full activity and work – within 2 to 4 weeks Small scars – cosmetic appeal
4. What are the factors that decide if the condition of the patient is suitable for robotic CABG?
Most patients are suitable to undergo Robotic CABG. However there may be a few patients with poor heart function, previous lung problems who may not be suitable. The Robotic specialist surgeon would review the patient and decide the above.
5. How long does robotic CABG surgery take?
Similar time as conventional CABG surgery, 4 to 5 hours
6. What is time for recovery after robotic CABG?
In Robotic surgery recovery is quick, patients are usually discharged from hospital in 3-4 days after surgery and are able to return to full normal activity in 2 to 3 weeks.
Following conventional open surgery recovery is prolonged since the central chest bone takes 3 to 4 months to heal
7. What is the success rate of robotic CABG surgery?
Outcomes of Robotic CABG are extremely well due to use of all arterial conduits for CABG, with less complication rate
8. Are there any after effects or side effects of robotic CABG and what is the cost of Bypass surgery in Delhi?
There are no any after effects or side effects of robotic CABG, it’s cost varies from patient to patient depending on patient’s condition and depicted by the doctor
9. What are complications for robotic CABG?
The only complication may be conversion to open surgery. If there is any hemodynamic compromise (blood pressure drop) or excessive bleeding during Robotic surgery and if it persists after necessary medications and measures, then the surgeon may have to open the chest and do the needful by handling the heart. The risk of conversion as above is less than 2% (less than 1 or 2 out of 100 procedures performed).
10. What is the cost range and variance for Robotic CABG when compared with conventional surgery?
Robotic CABG is slightly more expensive than conventional CABG due to the added cost of the robotic arms and instruments. The benefit of early return to normal activity and reduced risk of complications outweighs the additional cost.
11. Does insurance cover robotic CABG?
Yes most insurance companies cover robotic CABG. Some may need additional letter from the operating team regarding robotic costs. However final coverage may depend on the policy.