General Surgery | Lauren A Poliakin MD, FACS, DABOM

General Surgery

Surgical approaches have evolved beyond the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. In modern medicine, there is a focus on reducing invasiveness during operations, leading to faster recovery times and better outcomes. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic and robotic procedures, are becoming increasingly common. These methods involve smaller incisions and cuts, resulting in less tissue damage and a quicker healing process. By embracing these advancements, surgeons can provide patients with improved surgical experiences and achieve successful outcomes.

General Surgery

Procedures and Conditions

Procedures Offered

● Inguinal Hernia Repair● Paraesophageal Hernia Repair● Skin Cancer Biopsy/Excision● Lymph Node Biopsy/Excision● Acid Reflux Surgery● Cholecystectomy● Appendectomy● Soft Tissue Mass Biopsy/Excision● Minimally Invasive & Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery● Robotic Surgery

Conditions Treated

● Hiatal Hernia● Gallbladder Disease● Appendicitis● Ventral Hernia● Inguinal Hernia● Hemorrhoids● Skin Cancer● Breast Mass Excision● Benign Skin Tumors● Soft Tissue Tumors

● Hemorrhoidectomy● Paraesophageal Hernia● Bowel Obstruction● Appendectomy● Incisional Hernia● Breast Disease● Lymphadenopathy● Stomach and Intestinal Surgery● Ventral/Incisional Hernia Repair● GERD

As a board-certified surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Dr. Poliakin has undergone rigorous training and demonstrated exceptional proficiency in the field of robotic surgery. Her dedication to staying at the forefront of medical advancements is evident through her certification with the da Vinci® Surgical System, further solidifying her expertise in this groundbreaking technology.
The da Vinci® Robotic Surgery System represents a remarkable advancement in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Through this state-of-the-art platform, Dr. Poliakin harnesses the power of robotic assistance to perform complex procedures with unmatched precision, control, and dexterity. The system's robotic arms, controlled by Dr. Poliakin's skilled hands, enable her to execute intricate maneuvers with enhanced visualization and utmost accuracy.
With extensive experience utilizing the da Vinci® Robotic Surgery System, Dr. Poliakin has successfully performed numerous procedures across various specialties. From inguinal hernia repair to paraesophageal hernia repair, Dr. Poliakin's expertise in robotic surgery allows her to deliver exceptional patient outcomes while minimizing surgical risks and promoting faster recovery.

What are the benefits of the da Vinci® Surgical System
The da Vinci® Surgical System is a robotic surgical platform that enables minimally invasive surgery. It offers several benefits for both surgeons and patients. Here are some of the benefits of the da Vinci® Surgical System:
Minimally invasive approach: The da Vinci® system allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery. Minimally invasive surgery generally results in reduced trauma to the body, less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times for patients.
Enhanced precision and control: The robotic system provides surgeons with enhanced precision, dexterity, and control during procedures. The robotic arms translate the surgeon's hand movements into precise and scaled movements inside the patient's body. This can allow for more precise surgical maneuvers, particularly in delicate areas.
3D visualization: The da Vinci® system offers high-definition, three-dimensional visualization of the surgical site. This provides surgeons with a clear, magnified view of the area they are operating on, allowing for better visualization of anatomical structures and more precise surgical techniques.
Reduced hand tremors: The robotic system filters and scales the surgeon's hand movements, eliminating hand tremors and enabling precise movements even during delicate procedures. This can be particularly beneficial for procedures that require fine suturing or dissection.
Greater access to difficult-to-reach areas: The da Vinci® system's robotic arms have a greater range of motion and flexibility compared to human hands, allowing surgeons to access hard-to-reach areas inside the body more easily. This can be advantageous for procedures in confined spaces or deep within the body.
Shorter recovery times: Minimally invasive surgery performed using the da Vinci® system typically results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times for patients. Smaller incisions result in less postoperative pain, reduced risk of infection, and quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery.
Potential for better clinical outcomes: The combination of enhanced visualization, precision, and minimally invasive techniques provided by the da Vinci® system can potentially lead to improved clinical outcomes in terms of reduced complications, less blood loss, and better preservation of healthy tissues.
It's important to note that the benefits of the da Vinci® Surgical System may vary depending on the specific procedure and the surgeon's experience and skill. The decision to use the da Vinci system is typically made on a case-by-case basis, considering various factors such as the patient's condition, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's expertise.
What are the risks of the da Vinci® Surgical System
While the da Vinci® Surgical System offers several benefits, like any surgical procedure, it is not without risks. Some potential risks and complications associated with the da Vinci® Surgical System include:
Surgical complications: As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, organ or tissue damage, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. These risks are inherent to the surgical procedure itself and are not specific to the da Vinci® system.
Technical malfunctions: The da Vinci® Surgical System relies on advanced technology, and there is a possibility of technical malfunctions or equipment failures during surgery. While these occurrences are relatively rare, they can potentially impact the procedure and require the surgical team to take appropriate measures to address them.
Surgeon learning curve: The da Vinci® system requires specialized training and experience to operate effectively. During the learning curve, when surgeons are still gaining proficiency with the system, there is a potential for longer operating times or a higher risk of complications. It is crucial to choose a surgeon who has received appropriate training and has sufficient experience with the da Vinci® system.
Lack of tactile feedback: Unlike traditional open surgery, the da Vinci® system does not provide tactile feedback to the surgeon. Although the system offers enhanced visualization, the absence of direct touch feedback may limit the surgeon's ability to assess tissue characteristics and apply appropriate force.
Cost: The da Vinci® Surgical System is a significant investment for healthcare facilities, and the associated costs may be higher compared to traditional surgery. These costs can potentially impact healthcare expenses for patients.
It's important to note that the da Vinci® Surgical System has been used in numerous surgeries worldwide with favorable outcomes. The benefits of the system often outweigh the potential risks, especially when performed by experienced surgeons. Surgeons and healthcare professionals carefully evaluate each patient's case and consider the specific risks and benefits before deciding on the use of the da Vinci® system for a particular procedure. Patients should have a thorough discussion with their surgeon to understand the risks and benefits specific to their situation.
Additional Resources
● MedlinePlus● National Institutes of Health● Centers for Disease Control and Prevention● Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development● U.S. Department of Health & Human Services● U.S. National Library of Medicine● WebMD

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