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One of the most important medical-technological achievements of the 20th century was the development of minimally invasive surgical techniques in adult and pediatric patients. Undoubtedly, laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery has had a major impact in the management of many pediatric illnesses.

Laparoscopic surgery has proven safe, efficient, technically feasible and well-tolerated in infants, young children and teenagers. Its main advantages relate to reduced hospital stay, decreased hospital charges, decreased pain, early return to normal activities and better cosmetic results when compared to open (conventional) procedures. For the patient and his/her family, this translates to less pain and discomfort and quick return to activities of daily life-school, sports and play.

The 21^st century is witnessing a revolution in the field of surgery with the introduction of the da Vinci Surgical System. The fourth generation and most advanced robotic system is now being used at the Medical University of South Carolina. The system was introduced to MUSC in May of

With the da Vinci Surgical System, the operating surgeon has the ability to control each one of the robot’s four arms throughout the operation. Fine and delicate movements performed by the surgeon via the robotic arms and instruments are fully visualized in true 3-D, allowing the surgeon to perform as if he or she were inside the body. The system allows for highly precise movements and maneuvers that frequently are superior to what the human hand can accomplish during open surgery.

The da Vinci Surgical System does not replace the surgeon, but rather adds to existing technology in minimally invasive surgery to improve the surgeon’s capabilities. The operations are performed entirely under the control of the pediatric surgeon. The robot will allow the surgeon to be more precise in performing certain procedures using laparoscopic and thoracoscopic technique. It responds to the surgeon’s movements in real time. The robot cannot be programmed, nor can it make decisions on its own to move in any way or perform any type of surgical maneuver without the surgeon’s input. The robot simply moves special instruments via the robotic arms that mimic the surgeon’s movements on a smaller and finer scale. Because of its four-arm configuration, it will allow the surgeon to work as if he or she had four arms and hands. The system is designed so the surgeon can be in complete control of the robot and the procedure at all times.