In November 2007, WellStar Kennestone Hospital performed its first surgery using the new daVinci® Surgical System, and became one of Georgia’s earliest adopters of this exciting state-of-the-art technology.
The daVinci robotics device is a high-priority technology at WellStar because it allows for significantly smaller incisions than those made during traditional open surgeries. daVinci’s minimally invasive, keyhole-sized incisions mean patients benefit from:
Physicians using the machine benefit from:
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A greater range of motion
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Increased operational precision
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Incredible versatility previously unobtainable with the human hand
daVinci is fundamentally similar to previous forms of laparoscopic surgery, but because of its “3D High-Definition” technology, the device allows the operating surgeon significantly better vision than with traditional video equipment. He or she is now able to look at a digitally-enhanced operating site with a dramatic improvement in clarity and spatial definition.
daVinci’s technology enhances a surgeon's skills - it does not replace them. There is still a human presence behind the advanced system, which assists in intricate procedures that are viewed through an eyepiece and endoscope. The daVinci robot's arms manipulate the surgeon's tools – bending back and forth, from side to side, and rotating in a full circle, like an efficient wrist – and yet, they remain entirely controlled by the surgeon’s hands.
The daVinci Surgical System can be used for many different types of surgeries; currently, WellStar Kennestone Hospital is utilizing daVinci to assist with Gynecologic surgery. The Urology and Cardiac departments will follow over the summer of 2008. Our surgeons are excited to learn this new skill, and are developing new techniques for surgeries they have performed for many years.
Experienced surgeons often explain that the biggest challenge in using the device is keeping post-operative patients off their feet. People who have undergone daVinci procedures feel so good after the operation, that they have difficultly remembering that they have just experienced major surgery, and need to rest for a few weeks.
WellStar’s excellent nursing staff has undergone training from Intuitive Surgical (the daVinci manufacturer) and other hospitals. Our nurses have mastered the skills of a robotics specialist, and WellStar has dedicated a team to work solely with the daVinci system in order to ensure the vital expertise required to most effectively use the robot.
WellStar Kennestone Hospital is committed to making once imaginary surgical procedures a standard for WellStar patients. We believe in embracing the medical technology of tomorrow, today.
