Dr. Mark A. Talamini uses the da Vinci® Surgical System at UCSD to perform several different types of surgical procedures.  The da Vinci® system is a set of computerized, robotic operating room equipment that enables a surgeon to perform intricate surgery through very small incisions with greater steadiness and control.  The da Vinci® system makes it possible to perform minimally invasive procedures for many types of surgery that used to require large incisions.  Data show that minimally invasive surgery can minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues, reduce pain and scarring from the operation, and shorten the patient's recovery time.  The da Vinci® system includes the following parts. Robotic arms that enhance the steadiness and precision of the surgeon's skilled hand and wrist movements.  The robotic arms are also able to bend and rotate in ways that the human wrist and hand cannot, extending the surgeon's ability to manipulate the surgical instruments exactly as needed. Tiny high-resolution endoscopic cameras that give the surgeon precise 3-D images of the operating field.  With these 3-D images, the surgeon does not need a large incision in order to have a full view. A console where the surgeon views the 3-D images from the endoscopic cameras and operates by controlling the robotic arms.    For more information about the da Vinci® Surgical System, please use the links below to access the manufacturer's detailed information pages and patient guides.   To make an appointment with Dr. Talamini to discuss whether a da Vinci® surgery is appropriate for you, please call Dr. Talamini's office at (619) 543-6453.