Robot-assisted surgery, as a development of laparoscopic surgery, has an increasing field of application. Beside urology, this technique has also been implemented in visceral and thoracic surgery and gynaecology. For the surgeon an enhanced view of the surgical field and a better mobility of the instruments are the most important advantages. Thus, it is possible to work more accurate and prevent inadvertent tissue damage. For the anaesthesiologist several characteristics are of importance. Limited access to the patient as a result of a special positioning requires adequate anaesthetic preparation. For many visceral and thoracic surgical interventions the head and airway of the patient is bedded remote from the anaesthesiologist. Therefore, a standardised order and protection of all i. v.-lines, cables and the ventilation-hose of the (double-lumen) tube is essential. After the roboter is connected to the patient, it is nearly impossible to change or extend patient monitoring. Especially in case of emergency, e. g. respiratory complications or heart failure, a close communication with the surgeon and a team approach are indispensable.
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