Robotically-assisted minimally invasive surgery represents a third generation of surgery, one which builds upon the advances of open surgery that were introduced by minimally invasive surgery. Robotic technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand, introducing precise, versatile instrument movement combined with three-dimensional visualization of the operative site.
“This is a big home run for the patient. There are small skin incisions, precise surgery, less pain, less discomfort and the patients are able to return back to their normal activity very quickly,” said Douglas Pugmire, D.O., Crittenton’s Medical Director, Robotic Surgery Program.
Since the program’s inception in May 2010, Crittenton has performed over 700 cases and has had to expand hours of operation from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday-Friday to accommodate the demand for the growing popularity of robotic technology.
Crittenton is recognized as one of only five epicenters in the U.S. for gynecologic oncology. As a result, visiting surgeons who are either interested in pursuing robotic surgery or who are interested in advancing their practice come to Crittenton to learn.
“Surgeons are going to come here to be trained how to be robotic surgeons. There are only five epicenters in the country and we are one of them,” said Pugmire.
Crittenton has over 25 surgeons on staff that is trained in robotic surgery including general surgery, gynecologic surgery, GYN/oncology and urology. The hospital also uses the The da Vinci® Surgical System which provides patients with a minimally invasive treatment option for a range of complex gynecologic conditions. The da Vinci® Surgical System is being used by more than 1,450 academic and community hospital sites, while sustaining growth in excess of 25% annually.
About Tom and Ann Gendich