With da Vinci® computer-assisted robotic surgery, the operating surgeon is always in complete control. The machine cannot be programmed, nor can it make any movements or decisions on its own. It requires that every surgical maneuver be performed with direct input from the surgeon at the viewing console.
As an additional safety feature, the system must detect the surgeon's head in the viewing console to make any sort of movement. If the surgeon is away from the viewer, the system will lock and remain motionless until the surgeon resumes his or her position. To prevent unintentional tearing, a zero-point movement system prevents the robotic arms from pivoting above or at the entry incision during surgery. In addition, each EndoWrist® instrument contains a chip that prevents the use of any other instrument not specifically made for the da Vinci system. The chip also stores information about the instrument to alert staff when it should be replaced.
During the course of an operation, the da Vinci system performs millions of safety self checks. It is designed to be fail-safe, which means that in the event of power interruption or a safety-check failure, the system will effectively shut down, allowing the surgeon to remain in control of the procedure.
Besides highly safe equipment, staff at Mission Hospital must undergo thorough education and training before operating the da Vinci surgical system. Training includes both a formal component as well as clinical application.
