St. Elizabeth Healthcare is leading the way in surgical innovation with the da Vinci 5 System. At the forefront of this advancement is our dedicated team of surgeons, including M. Ryan Moon, MD, FACS. The expertise and commitment to patient care by Dr. Moon and our other surgical team members are driving new possibilities in robotic-assisted surgery.
Q: What is the da Vinci 5 system? How does it differ from previous robotic surgery systems?
A: The da Vinci 5 Surgical System is the most advanced da Vinci surgical robot on the market today. It’s much like other da Vinci models. It allows us to perform minimally invasive surgeries through tiny incisions with extreme precision. However, da Vinci 5 has a number of design enhancements that may help improve surgical outcomes. For example, it offers surgeons clearer 3D images with better resolution, color and depth perception. And it improves surgical movements. Surgeons may also benefit from the system’s Force Feedback technology and updated computing power. The computer allows for the integration of data analytics.. These enhancements may help us improve surgical techniques and lead to better patient care.
Q: What is Force Feedback technology?
A: Force Feedback technology allows surgeons to sense the force exerted by the robotic instruments during surgery. When we push or pull tissues inside the body with the robot, we can essentially feel resistance or tension in our hands via the controls on the console. Normally, you’d only get that sensation performing traditional surgery. When you can better sense the force that you’re applying with the instruments, you use less force. This makes the surgery gentler and even less invasive.
Q: How has the da Vinci 5 Surgical System changed your approach to performing minimally invasive surgeries?
A: We’re very enthusiastic about using the da Vinci 5 system. It will be especially helpful for more complex surgical cases. The system offers superior control and improved precision, which makes the most challenging and delicate procedures easier. That’s important in its own right. But in many cases, it may also help us reduce procedure time. Better ergonomics make using da Vinci 5 more comfortable for the surgeon, too. That may enhance performance.
Q: What types of surgeries is the da Vinci 5 most commonly used for? Why is it particularly beneficial for these procedures?
A: At St. Elizabeth, the da Vinci 5 has become integral in performing bariatric (weight loss) surgery. That’s a major surgery that requires very precise maneuvers. There’s a risk of serious complications. We can reduce that risk with a minimally invasive approach. Da Vinci 5 also enhances outcomes in general surgery cases. It offers precision and efficiency that traditional surgical methods can’t match. When we can perform procedures such as gallbladder removals and hernia repairs through small incisions, there’s less trauma to surrounding tissues. This means there’s less blood loss, scarring and discomfort than open surgery. There is also a lower risk of complications, such as infections.
Q: Can you describe some specific features of the da Vinci 5 that enhance surgical procedures and benefit patients?
A: One good example has to do with how quickly and easily we can do certain tasks. For instance, we can efficiently set the surgical robot up at the patient’s side. We can also quickly exchange surgical instruments on the robotic arms during surgery. The tools that cauterize or seal blood vessels on the da Vinci 5 are much faster than those we’ve used with previous systems. When we can complete surgery in less time, patients get less anesthesia. This lowers the risk of complications and shortens recovery times. Patients really appreciate that.
Q: What kind of training is required to operate da Vinci 5?
A: We have 24 surgeons who have been trained and are currently doing cases on the da Vinci 5. The da Vinci Xi trained surgeons do the da Vinci 5 online videos from the robot company followed by a 45-minute hands-on training session. They take an online assessment test at the end to receive their certificate of training. They are supported by the robot company rep for multiple cases following training. In addition, we have 147 staff members across the system including PA’s and NP’s that work for surgeon’s groups. This also includes our weekend and after-hours teams. All of the da Vinci Xi trained staff are required to watch the da Vinci 5 online videos followed by a one-hour hands-on training session with the robot company rep. Once the hands-on training is completed, the staff take an online assessment test to receive their certificate of training.
Q: Robotic surgery is often used in urology, gynecology and general surgery. What are some other possible applications with da Vinci 5?
A: One area I see great potential for using the da Vinci 5 is component separation hernia repair. This procedure involves separating layers of abdominal muscles. We reconnect them in a way that resolves the hernia. Typically, we perform these complex repairs with open surgery. But the robotic system could eliminate the need for an open approach. That would minimize pain after surgery and speed up recovery.
Q: Who are the best candidates for surgery with the da Vinci 5 system?
A: Anyone who could have laparoscopic surgery would generally be a good candidate for robotic surgery. We consider factors such as your body size and overall health to decide if robotic surgery is right for you. We also look at your surgical history. If you’ve had previous surgery in the same area of the body, a robotic procedure may not be a good option. Your safety always comes first.
St. Elizabeth is committed to providing you with the very best in surgical care [link to: https://www.stelizabethphysicians.com/our-services/general-surgery/].
To learn more about our surgery offerings or to schedule a consultation, please visit stelizabeth.com.
