A Higher Level of Precision and Performance
If you need a surgery, you can rely on surgeons at St. Josephs’ Health for the latest techniques—including minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Our specially-trained surgeons offer the latest robotic, laparoscopic, endoscopic and other minimally invasive options for a wide range of conditions. Surgeries that once required extensive hospital stays and long periods for recovery and recuperation are now routinely done with this less invasive approach, often on an outpatient basis.
What is Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Minimally invasive is a term used for any type of surgery that is less invasive than traditional or open surgery. Minimally invasive procedures are performed using tiny, narrow instruments passed through tubes with a miniature camera attached. These tools allow the surgeon to see inside the body without making the large incisions required in traditional surgery. The camera gives the surgeon clear and magnified views of the surgical area throughout the procedure for greater precision and control.
What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is the most advanced form of minimally invasive surgery that uses robotic arms to operate through the small incisions. During robotic surgery, surgeons use very small surgical instruments that fit into a patient’s body through tiny incisions. The surgeon controls the instruments and camera at a console in the operating room. The robot then translates the surgeon’s hand, wrist, and finger movements to guide each instrument.
Robotic surgery does not mean the robot is performing the surgery; rather, your surgeon completes the surgery using the robot as a tool. The robot helps surgeons perform even the most complex and delicate procedures through very small incisions with superior precision, control, visibility, and range of motion, resulting in fewer complications and better patient outcomes.
St. Joseph’s Health surgeons use the latest daVinci Robotic Surgery System — the most advanced surgical technology available today.
Benefits of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery
Because this technology uses fewer, smaller incisions, you benefit from:
- Less postoperative pain
- A lower risk of infection
- Minimal scarring
- Decreased blood loss
- Faster recovery times
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster return to your normal activities
Examples of Conditions and Surgeries Using Minimally Invasive Techniques
- Acid reflux and GERD
- Bariatric/weight loss surgery
- Colorectal surgery
- General surgery
- Emergency General Surgery
- Gynecologic surgery
- Incontinence
- Thoracic surgery
- Cancer surgery
Is Minimally Invasive Surgery or Robotic Surgery Right for Me?
Minimally invasive techniques are not appropriate for all patients and all surgeries. Talk with your doctor about your surgical options and what is right for you given your condition and needs.