Vītols Clinic introduces da Vinci robot-assisted surgery in urology and gynaecology
The private Vītols Clinic in Latvia is introducing the da Vinci robot-assisted surgical system for urology and gynaecology operations. The system was developed by the US company Intuitive Surgical, and every operation is performed by a surgeon.
Vītols Clinic in Latvia is introducing the da Vinci robot-assisted surgical system for use in urology and gynaecology operations. The technology lets surgeons operate in a minimally invasive way, through small incisions rather than open surgery. The clinic says this makes an internationally used treatment method available to patients in Latvia.
How the system works
The da Vinci system provides an enlarged three-dimensional image and fine, highly manoeuvrable instruments. These help perform precise manipulation, tissue dissection and suturing, including in hard-to-reach areas. The operation is carried out by a surgeon who controls the instruments and camera from a console. The system itself makes no decisions and takes no actions on its own.
In suitable cases, compared with open surgery, the minimally invasive approach means smaller scars, less pain after the operation, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to daily life. Precise instrument control helps spare nerves and other important structures needed for organ function and quality of life after surgery. The benefits depend on the diagnosis, the type of operation and the patient's health.
Where it will be used
In urology, robot-assisted surgery is most often used to treat prostate, kidney and bladder tumours. In gynaecology, it is used in operations for endometriosis, fibroids, hysterectomy and pelvic organ prolapse. In suitable cases it can help preserve urinary continence and erectile function after prostate surgery, or allow a kidney tumour to be removed while keeping the rest of the kidney.
The doctor chooses the most suitable method together with the patient, weighing the diagnosis, health condition, expected benefits and possible risks. Dr Jurģis Vītols, the clinic's operating gynaecologist and obstetrics specialist, says the treatment plan is still based on the diagnosis, the doctor's experience and the patient's needs, and that consultations will cover benefits, risks and alternatives.
About the developer
The system was developed by the US company Intuitive Surgical, which has more than 30 years of experience developing robotic surgery technology. It is used in urology, gynaecology and general surgery. By the end of 2025, more than 20 million patients worldwide had been operated on with these systems.
