Society of Reproductive Surgeons Telesurgery - Robotic Surgery Myomectomy

Presenters

Needs Assessment and Description
Laparoscopic myomectomy is the ideal reproductive surgery operation. The indication for surgery is often based on a highly specialized understanding of a complex longitudinal clinical picture, and microsurgical technique is essential. Yet, laparoscopic myomectomy has eluded adoption by many reproductive surgeons due to its objective technical challenges and poor ergonomics. Robot-assisted laparoscopy represents the long-awaited enabling interface between reproductive surgeons and advanced laparoscopy. The addition of robotic myomectomy, a high-specialty surgery performed by a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist, expands patient surgical options. This course will enable participants to view a televised live surgical procedure and is designed for reproductive surgeons and other healthcare professionals.

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to: 

1. Describe the standard operating room set-up for robotic myomectomy, including the choice of specific instruments, sutures and energy sources. 
2. Identify clinical cases for which robotic myomectomy is an appropriate or inappropriate treatment choice. 
3. Consider variations on the theme of standard robotic myomectomy, such as cosmetic port set-up, hybrid robotic myomectomy and use of photonic energy.

ACGME Competency
Patient Care

TEST QUESTION:
Which of the following statements best describes robotic myomectomy? 

1. Robotic platforms allow full range of motion (seven degrees of freedom) of the ultrasonic knife. 
2. Robotic platforms are scientifically-proven laparoscopic enablers. 
3. Robotic instruments must be inserted through port sites in the upper abdomen. 
4. Transvaginal sonography is ideal for preoperative mapping of the myomas. 
5. The technique is clearly superior to conventional laparoscopic myomectomy in terms of perioperative outcomes. 
6. Advanced laparoscopic training is required in order to become a safe robotic surgeon.