From the Winter 2017 issue of AtlanticView:
Because of the precision of new computer-guided equipment, more and more patients at Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center are realizing the benefits of robot-assisted surgery.
“We have the most sophisticated technology for this type of surgery,” says Ayal Kaynan, MD, director of minimally invasive and robotic surgery for Morristown Medical Center. “And our physicians are embracing the advantages these tools offer. That’s important, because when we can use this equipment to safely avoid traditional ‘open’ surgery, it’s better for our patients.”
“Minimally invasive” refers to using tiny tools, small incisions (cuts) and special techniques. This combination reduces blood loss as well as the risk of infection and recovery time. So some patients who might stay in the hospital up to seven days after traditional surgery, for example, can return home the next day.
Options and Advances
At Morristown Medical Center, surgeons can choose from three different robots, including the da Vinci Xi® surgical robot, plus a variety of other advanced tools. Three-dimensional images and special lighting give clear views inside the body. Ultrasound during the procedure helps surgeons evaluate different types of tissue in real time. Computer-guided tools give them better precision than is possible with the human hand.
Together, these investments allow Morristown Medical Center’s experienced robotic surgical team to complete more complex surgery of the colon, gallbladder, bowels and kidneys, as well as surgeries for urological, gynecological and cancer conditions.
“Some types of hernia repair are very complex and almost always require open surgery. But here at Morristown, the robot allows us to do these surgeries in a minimally invasive fashion with less pain and quicker recovery,” says Michael Hernando, MD, board-certified surgeon for Morristown Surgical Associates. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery.
“We have the team and the equipment to provide the best of robot-assisted surgery to Morristown,” Dr. Kaynan says. “Looking ahead, it’s exciting to see how the explosion of technology will bring even more advances here for our patients.”