The system features a magnified 3-D high-definition vision field and small wristed instruments that rotate and bend with greater flexibility than the human hand. As a result, surgeons gain enhanced vision, precision and control.
In 2017, surgeons at Franciscan Health Indianapolis performed 455 robotic procedures. Surgeons use the system for general, gynecologic, colorectal, thoracic and urologic procedures.
Urologic surgeon William Schwab serves as director of the hospital’s newly created robotics steering committee, which ensures that the system is more efficient and accessible to the growing number of surgeons interested in using it.
“The robot is fantastic for certain types of procedures and new options continue to evolve,” Dr. Schwab said.
For many years, surgeons have carried out robotic prostatectomies, nephrectomies and hysterectomies. More recently, certain kinds of hernia repairs and lung surgeries have been done robotically.