Methodist’s da Vinci Si Robotic Surgical System has a partner.
UnityPoint Health – Methodist has added the da Vinci Xi surgical system to its arsenal of technology. Methodist recently purchased the new robot, which is being used for urology, gynecology and general surgery. Surgical teams at Methodist already use the da Vinci Si robotic surgical system.
The benefits to patients are significant: less pain, less blood loss, fewer complications, less scarring, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery. “Even 15 to 20 minutes saved in a major procedure lasting four to six hours can be beneficial for a patient,” says Dr. Steven S. Tsoraides, MPH, FACS, FASCRS and medical director for the UnityPoint Health – Peoria Colorectal Cancer Center. “I’ve decreased operative time in major colorectal surgery by up to an hour with the Xi in some cases. This means less anesthesia and fewer fluids for the patient.
“The Xi is very similar to the Si in feel and experience from the surgeon’s perspective,” he adds. “This makes for an easy transition to upgraded technology. The key benefit is that the platform is more flexible.”
Both da Vinci surgical systems enable surgeons to perform delicate and complex operations through a few small incisions. A da Vinci System consists of several key components: an ergonomically designed console where the surgeon sits while operating, a patient side-cart where the patient is positioned during surgery, interactive robotic arms, a 3D-HD vision system and the EndoWrist.
Intuitive Surgical’s patented EndoWrist instruments are designed to provide surgeons with natural dexterity while operating through small incisions. Modeled after the human wrist, they offer a greater range of motion than the human hand. An EndoWrist’s internal cables provide supreme responsiveness, allowing rapid and precise suturing, dissection and tissue manipulation.
And the surgical staff at Methodist is thoroughly trained in the new instrument. “Staff receives comprehensive hands-on training and modules online,” notes Amy Hill, nurse manager and interim Director of Surgical Services. “The online modules provide basic overviews of the vision system, docking, the surgeon’s console, intraoperative use and trouble shooting. Then there is an assessment of knowledge at the end of the course. In addition, each member of the robotic team participated in hours of hands-on training with a qualified trainer from da Vinci.”
The robots are powered by amazing technology that allows the surgeon’s hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise movements—a natural extension of the surgeon’s eyes and hands into the patient. Highly-magnified 3D HD vision ensures that surgeons can see the surgical site with true depth perception and crystal-clear vision. “The Xi requires much less effort to reposition, and in some cases, is able to work in multiple quadrants with no reposition at all. This is a huge advantage given the size and weight of the equipment,” Dr. Tsoraides explains. “The Xi enhances our ability to ensure that patients have optimal post-surgical outcomes,” he adds. “The team at Methodist is very excited about this new technology.” iBi
