Holland Hospital first introduced the Lakeshore area to robotic-assisted surgery in 2007. Now, the hospital has upgraded to the latest advanced surgical robot, the da Vinci Si. Our new da Vinci model replaces the prior robot and offers additional technological capabilities with significant patient benefits. It will be used by our specially trained surgeons for a variety of surgical procedures including urological, gynecological and general surgeries.
Robotic-assisted surgery enhances the surgeon's ability to perform minimally invasive procedures when compared to laparoscopic or traditional “open” surgery. Working at a console adjacent to the patient, the surgeon operates the da Vinci’s precise surgical instruments using its high-definition 3D video camera with 10 times magnification. The system also has tremor filtration to maximize precision in the surgeon’s hand movement during the procedure. Robotic surgery patients often experience shorter hospital stays, fewer adverse side affects, and faster return to normal daily activities.
Single-Site Robotic Surgery
An important new feature of the da Vinci Si is its ability to perform single-site surgery – a virtually scar-free procedure which requires only one incision in the navel (belly button). For example, removal of the gallbladder has generally been performed with manual laparoscopic surgery which involves multiple incisions and may not be suitable for certain patients. With Holland Hospital’s new da Vinci Si, patients can expect little to no scarring. What’s more, patients now have even more incentive to come to Holland Hospital since single-site robotic-assisted surgery is not available in Grand Rapids.
Fluorescence Imaging Capability
Another remarkable feature of the new da Vinci Si is its integrated fluorescence imaging capability that provides real-time, image-guided identification of key anatomical landmarks using near-infrared technology. This technology allows the surgeon to see anatomical tissues in ways not possible with the naked eye. Specifically, the new robot offers a safe and effective method to accurately identify soft tissue perfusion and vasculature. For instance, on a partial nephrectomy the tumor of the kidney will remain dark while the healthy kidney tissue will be highlighted. This allows the surgeon to more accurately identify the proper amount of tissue to be removed. Fluorescence imaging helps guide the surgeon during complex tissue-sparing procedures that involve highly delicate structures. No other hospital along the Lakeshore offers this capability.
Look for more news in the coming months as our skilled surgeons and expert surgery teams use the new da Vinci robot to provide our patients with advanced care and superior outcomes. For additional information on our robotic-assisted surgery, visit hollandhospital.org.