What to Expect from a Robot-Assisted Cardiac Procedure

Last updated 8 months ago

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, and our team of healthcare professionals here at Los Robles Hospital of Thousand Oaks, CA is working diligently to provide our patients with access to cutting-edge medical technology and minimally-invasive surgical techniques. Learn more about what our team of experienced surgeons can do for you and your loved ones with our robot-assisted cardiac procedures:

Risks of Cardiac Surgery

The human heart is only about the size of a fist, but it pumps an average of 1,800 gallons of blood every day. Any abnormalities in its chambers or major valves and arteries can have a devastating effect on a person’s overall health, and performing even routine surgical procedures such as valve replacements and artery grafts is extremely risky.

Why Robot-Assisted Surgery?

Through the use of the da Vinci® surgical system, robot-assisted procedures at Los Robles Hospital filter the surgeon’s movements, allowing him or her to perform complex cardiac procedures through several keyhole-sized incisions. The da Vinci® system allows the surgeon to use five robotic arms: one for an endoscopic camera, and the other four for necessary surgical instruments. Robot-assisted cardiac surgery provides improved visibility and dexterity with minimal tissue damage.

Preparing for Robot-Assisted Surgery

Pre-surgery preparation will involve a comprehensive physical examination with your doctor, and may include any of the scans listed below to construct a virtual image of the heart and its abnormalities:

Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG)
Coronary angiogram
Chest x-ray
Ultrasound
CT scan
MRI scan

Your doctor will inquire about any medications you are taking, and may prescribe a special diet or antibiotics. Depending on the type of surgery, a robot-assisted procedure can take anywhere from one to four hours.

Visit our nationally-recognized Cardiac and Cardiovascular Center here at Los Robles Hospital & Medical Center if you are seeking superior heart care. As an Accredited Chest Pain Center, we maintain a strict standard of excellence in all of our cardiovascular services. To schedule an appointment with an experienced cardiologist, call (877) 888-5746 today.