Anesthesia for robotic-assisted prostatectomy

Abstract

This chapter will help the perioperative team acknowledge and address the potential issues associated with robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery. Topics to be discussed will include the physiological effects of pneumoperitoneum with carbon dioxide and its attendant change of increased abdominal pressure and hypercapnia along with the complex changes of steep head down tilt (SHDT) on the respiratory, cardiac, neurologic, and other organ systems. The physical effects of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery, along with considerations for high-risk patients, logistics, and planning, will also be discussed. Recognition of these factors will help improve the safety for the patients and the quality of perioperative outcomes. Furthermore, interdisciplinary communication is essential in ensuring the delivery of high-quality care to these patients.