Robotic Thymectomy

What is known is that the thymus gland is involved in the development of the immune system, which enables the body to defend itself against infection. The thymus produces certain cells, that stimulate the production of antibodies whose job it is to recognize and fight off foreign invaders called antigens, that enter our body. Normally the antibodies destroy the antigens before major illness occurs.

There are two widely used open surgical approaches for a thymectomy – the transcervical and the transsternal approach. The transcervical approach requires the surgeon to make an incision through the neck. While the transsternal approach involves making a long "Y" shaped incision between the chest and the breastbone. Both of these options require fairly invasive incisions.

If your doctor recommends surgical repair, you may be a candidate for a new, less invasive surgical procedure called da Vinci ® robotic Thymectomy. This procedure uses a state-of-the-art surgical system designed to help your surgeon see vital anatomical structures more clearly and to perform a more precise operation.

For most patients, da Vinci ® Thymectomy offers numerous potential benefits over traditional open-chest surgery, including:

Patient Benefits

• Shorter hospital stay
• Less pain and scarring
• Less risk of infection
• Less blood loss and fewer transfusions
• Faster recovery
• Quicker return to normal activities

For more information about our robotic surgical program call (404) 851-8200.

As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is both patient- and procedure-specific. While radical hysterectomy or abdominal hysterectomy performed using the da Vinci ® Surgical System are considered safe and effective, these procedures may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.