Patient Q&A

Da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive surgical approach that allows your surgeon to operate through small incisions using specialized instruments.

No. The da Vinci system does not perform surgery on its own. Your surgeon controls the instruments throughout the procedure.

For many procedures, da Vinci may mean less pain, less time in the hospital, and a shorter recovery compared with traditional open surgery. Your doctor can help you understand what that could look like for you.

All surgery has risks, whether it is open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted. Da Vinci has been trusted by skilled surgeons for over 20 million patients worldwide, but it is not right for every patient or procedure. Your doctor can help you understand the risks and benefits based on your condition and care plan.

Laparoscopic surgery, like da Vinci, is minimally invasive. Both use a camera and instruments inserted through small incisions.

During laparoscopic surgery, surgeons stand next to patients and use long-handled instruments while looking at a video screen.

During da Vinci surgery, surgeons sit at a console in the operating room. The console gives them a 3D magnified view of where they're operating. From the console, surgeons move miniaturized instruments that offer a greater range of motion than laparoscopic instruments. This can help surgeons work in delicate and hard-to-reach spaces.

In the U.S., da Vinci surgery is usually covered by insurance, but coverage can vary depending on the procedure. If your doctor recommends da Vinci, check with your insurance company to understand if your procedure is covered.