Robotic-Assisted Cardiac Surgery

A Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Option

When you need heart surgery, the procedure itself isn’t always the hardest part — it’s the recovery afterward. Traditional open-heart surgery requires dividing the breastbone (sternum), which can limit your mobility and extend healing time.

Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive alternative. At El Camino Health, our team uses advanced technology to perform certain heart procedures through small incisions near the ribs. You can achieve the same high-quality outcomes with a faster, more comfortable return to daily life.

What Is Robotic Heart Surgery?

Robotic-assisted cardiac surgery allows us to operate on the heart without opening the chest. Instead, your surgeon makes a few small incisions between the ribs. They insert specialized instruments and a high-definition 3D camera through the openings to perform the procedure.

The robot doesn’t act independently. Your surgeon remains in full control at all times. The technology is simply a tool to improve visibility and precision. This way, we can perform the same proven heart procedures through a less invasive approach.

Why Choose Robotic-Assisted Cardiac Surgery?

For many patients, robotic-assisted heart surgery offers several advantages compared to open-heart techniques. You can benefit from:

• Faster recovery
• Fewer activity restrictions
• Less pain and scarring
• Lower risk of infection and other complications
• No need to divide the breastbone (sternotomy)
• Shorter hospital stay

Most importantly, the robotic approach doesn’t compromise the quality of your care. We only recommend it when your surgical team can achieve the same — or better — results as traditional surgery.

When Is Robotic Heart Surgery an Option?

At El Camino Health, we thoughtfully tailor surgical treatment to your needs. Our multidisciplinary team of heart surgeons, interventional cardiologists and imaging specialists comes together to review your unique case. They consider your heart condition, anatomy, overall health and personal goals to determine if a robotic procedure is right for you.

We offer the following robotic cardiothoracic surgery options:

• Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) robotic surgery. This procedure is a treatment for coronary artery disease. The arteries on the surface of your heart act like fuel lines, supplying the blood your heart needs to function. When those arteries become blocked or narrowed, bypass surgery restores blood flow using healthy vessels.
• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) treatment. AFib is a type of arrhythmia. Robotic procedures can restore a normal heart rhythm and, in some cases, reduce the risk of stroke and the long-term need for blood thinners.
• Cardiac catheterization. For certain complex heart conditions, we may combine robotic surgery with catheter-based treatments, such as stent placement in coronary arteries.
• Thoracic procedures. We can treat some lung conditions using a robotic approach.

Before Your Procedure

Your care team will guide you through a few steps to prepare for surgery. You may need lab work, a chest X-ray and an electrocardiogram (EKG).

On the day of the procedure, you’ll meet with your heart surgeon, anesthesiologist and care team to review the plan and answer any remaining questions. They work to eliminate as much uncertainty as possible, so you know exactly what to expect.

During Robotic Heart Surgery

You’ll receive anesthesia medication to keep you comfortable throughout surgery. Your surgeon begins by making three small incisions between the ribs, each less than a centimeter long. One incision is for a camera. The other two are for surgical instruments. During the procedure, your team may temporarily numb the nearby nerves to reduce postoperative pain.

At El Camino Health, we use the da Vinci robotic system. Your surgeon operates with a high-definition, 3D view that provides exceptional detail and depth perception. This leading-edge technology allows them to make highly precise, controlled movements. The robot never acts on its own. Your surgeon guides every step.

In CABG robotic surgery, your surgeon restores blood flow by connecting a healthy artery directly to the heart. In many cases, they can do this while the heart is still beating, without the need for a heart-lung machine.

Your safety is always our top priority. If needed, your team has all the tools and specialists in place to quickly convert to a traditional open surgery.

Your Recovery and Return to Daily Life

After surgery, you’ll spend your first night in the critical care unit for close monitoring. You’ll typically stay one additional night in the hospital before going home.

Recovery is often faster than traditional open-heart surgery, with fewer limitations on lifting, pushing or pulling. We encourage you to stay active with light movement, such as short walks throughout the day. Most patients can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication.

You can shower soon after returning home, though you’ll need to avoid baths, hot tubs and swimming for about a month while the incisions heal. In general, patients return to basic daily activities within about a week and regain full mobility in about two weeks.

Top-Rated Outcomes for Heart Surgery

El Camino Health is one of the only centers in the region equipped to perform robotic cardiothoracic surgery. We’ve earned a three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons — the highest possible distinction — placing our program among the top 10 percent in North America.

With specialty training and years of experience in robotic cardiothoracic techniques, our team brings the highest level of expertise to your care. We make every decision with your unique needs and best outcomes in mind.

Your Care Team

Robotic surgery is just one part of a comprehensive approach to heart care at El Camino Health. In addition to your cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon, your care team may also include:

• Anesthesiologists
• Electrophysiologists
• Interventional cardiologists
• Interventional radiologists
• Vascular surgeons
• Nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants
• Imaging specialists
• Dietitians
• Social workers
• Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialists
• Exercise physiologists

People Also Ask

How do I choose between robotic-assisted surgery and traditional open-heart surgery?

The right approach depends on your condition, anatomy and overall health, as well as the complexity of the procedure. Your care team will walk you through the benefits and risks of each option so you can make an informed decision together.

Will I need follow-up care?

Yes, you’ll have follow-up appointments so your care team can monitor your progress after surgery. Many patients benefit from cardiac rehabilitation, which includes monitored exercise, education and support to help you regain strength and improve heart health.

Should I get a second opinion?

Many patients choose to get a second opinion before robotic heart surgery to better understand their options. It can help confirm your diagnosis and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan.