Robotic Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Robotic Surgery?
A trained surgeon performs robotic surgery. The type of surgeon depends on the operation. A general surgeon may remove a gallbladder. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Robotic surgery uses very small tools attached to a robotic arm. The surgeon sits at a computer station and directs the movements of a robot. A camera on a thin tube, called a laparoscope, lets the surgeon see enlarged 3-D images of the body. Doctors use it for many kinds of surgery.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Robotic surgery can be done through smaller cuts than open surgery. The smaller cuts bring benefits, such as faster recovery. They also bring less pain and bleeding, less risk for infection, a shorter hospital stay, and smaller scars. It cannot always be used or be the best method of surgery for a specific problem.
How to prepare
For some types of procedures, you may need to cleanse your bowels with an enema or laxative the day before. You cannot have any food or fluid for 8 hours before the surgery. Your surgeon may ask you to stop aspirin, blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medicines, vitamins, or other supplements 10 days before the procedure. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own. Your surgeon decides which medicines to stop.
What happens during it
Often, you will be given general anesthesia so that you are asleep and pain-free. The surgeon makes small cuts to insert the instruments into your body. The robot matches the surgeon's hand movements and does the work with the tiny instruments.
Recovery
You will be taken to a recovery room after the procedure. You may have to stay in the hospital overnight or for a couple of days, depending on the surgery. You should be able to walk within a day after the procedure. Avoid heavy lifting or straining until your surgeon gives you the OK. Your surgeon may tell you not to drive for at least a week. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting or loss of consciousness, or bleeding that will not stop.
Risks and side effects
Any surgery can cause reactions to medicines. Breathing problems, bleeding, infection, and heart problems are also risks. The risks are as many as with open or laparoscopic surgery, but they are different. The FDA has received reports of injuries and deaths related to these devices. Most reports to the FDA are about device malfunctions, such as broken parts and display problems.
Who performs it
The FDA has cleared these devices for use by trained physicians in an operating room. Patients can ask about their surgeon's training and experience with these devices.
Common questions
Does a robot perform the surgery on its own?
No, the surgeon controls the robotic arm with a computer. The FDA says the device cannot perform surgery without direct human control.
Is it better than open surgery?
Not always, because it cannot always be used or be the best method for a specific problem. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this surgery and of other treatment options.
Does it take longer?
It can take longer. This is due to the amount of time needed to set up the robot.
Is it approved to treat cancer?
The FDA has not authorized any robotic device just for cancer prevention or treatment. The FDA has cleared them for some surgeries often done in people with cancer.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Robotic surgery
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Computer-Assisted Surgical Systems
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
