Robotic surgery is making a big difference for patients at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital. Dr. Min Kim, a general surgeon with Prisma Health General Surgery at the Blount Medical Office Building, has more than a decade of experience using the da Vinci Si robotic system. He has worked with the last three generations of this advanced technology, offering patients access to minimally invasive procedures with better outcomes. “Robotic surgery is here to stay, and I’m glad to be part of the process to improve our patients' access to this technology,” Dr. Kim said.
One of the biggest misconceptions Dr. Kim hears is that the robot performs the surgery on its own. “The robot is not autonomous; it is more like a remote control for the instrumentation,” he explained. In reality, the surgeon is always in control, using the robot to make precise movements. The da Vinci Si provides a 3D, high-definition view inside the body and allows for delicate, complex procedures that might not be possible otherwise. The system also can reduce surgeon fatigue during longer surgeries, which can further improve patient outcomes.
Robotic surgery has many benefits. The system’s instruments have “wrist-like” movements, giving surgeons better flexibility and precision than traditional methods. This means smaller incisions which produce less scarring and pain, reduced blood loss and risk of infection, and faster recovery times for patients. Studies also have shown that robotic surgery reduces the chance of needing open surgery and shortens hospital stays. These advantages are especially notable in urologic and gynecologic surgeries. “You don't need the robot for every laparoscopic case, but it is one more tool that allows us to do more advanced procedures safely,” Dr. Kim said.
Robotic technology also is expanding the types of procedures available at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital. For patients, this means receiving advanced care without the need to travel to larger cities. The da Vinci Si system can be used for a variety of procedures, such as thoracic and head and neck surgeries, in addition to urologic and gynecologic operations. This increased surgical capability allows patients to stay close to home for their care, surrounded by family and friends.
In addition to improving patient outcomes, robotic surgery enhances surgeon training and recruitment. Many current and future surgeons receive extensive training on robotic systems and expect hospitals to have robust robotics programs. Having advanced technology at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital ensures the hospital remains competitive in attracting skilled specialists, which further benefits the community.
With a commitment to providing the best-possible care, Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital’s investment in robotic surgery ensures that patients have access to the latest advancements close to home. If you’re considering surgery, talk to your doctor to see if robotic-assisted surgery is an option for you. For more information about robotic surgery at Prisma Health Blount Memorial Hospital, visit blountmemorial.org or call 865-238-6430.
