In my last post, I discussed an instance where technology was being used to solve a societal issue: the housing crisis in California. Technology is also being used in other ways to improve or innovate on established processes and procedures. One of those ways is through surgery. Surgery has always been risky and challenging, but it will always remain one of the best innovations in the extensive history of medicine. 

After finding out that a robot will help during an upcoming surgery of mine, I became fascinated with the whole concept. I’ve heard of robots doing surgery, but I never really delved into how the process goes. 

According to UCLA Health, robotic surgery is performed using something called the da Vinci™ surgical system. The setup of this system includes small, robotic, arm-like attachments to hold surgical tools, along with a camera and a screen to properly view the part of the body being operated on. Many people–including myself–have misunderstood the involvement of the robot. Robots are controlled by the surgeon(s) and do not make autonomous, operational decisions on behalf of the surgeon(s).  There are quite a few benefits to the robot’s involvement. Due to the small size of the robot’s attachments, the incisions a surgeon makes are smaller and made with much more precision. This is called minimally invasive surgery. Smaller cuts mean less bleeding, faster healing times, decreased risk of infection, and a shorter hospital stay. 

As with any other type of surgery, robotic surgery has its risks. Pain after the surgery is still expected, and even though the chance of infection decreases, it’s still possible if proper precaution is not taken. Also, the robot is still a machine that a human is operating. According to an article titled, Robotic Surgery: Risks vs. Rewards, “Not only is there potential for human error in operating the robotic technology, but an added risk of mechanical failure is also introduced.” The doctor has to be well-trained in robotic surgery, and the robot has to be serviced and programmed to be functional prior to the surgery. Luckily, speaking with the doctors that will operate on me has helped me understand the procedure better, and also helped me realize that it is necessary for the resolution of my main health issues.

Robotic surgery is just one of many improvements that human beings have made for the benefit of others. The possibilities of technology and seeing how far it can go is very intriguing and enticing. However, I do think people should consider the consequences before pushing certain technologies to the farthest limit, seeing that it could be detrimental to our planet and its inhabitants. Nevertheless, it’s very exciting to see continued progress in technology, especially in the realm of helping improve the livelihood of humans and other living beings.