Published on May 05, 2011

Region’s Newest da Vinci® Surgical System Enhances Precision and Patient Safety

Gynecologists Cheryl Dwyer, D.O., and Lydia Watson, M.D., of MidMichigan Physicians Group perform the first da Vinci® Si Surgical System procedure last week at MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland.

Robotic precision is advancing surgical techniques at MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland with the arrival of the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, the most technologically advanced robotic surgery system in the region. The technology puts a surgeon’s hands at the controls to perform even the most complex and delicate procedures through tiny incisions.

“MidMichigan is committed to offering cutting edge technology supported by physician expertise by being the only provider in the region to offer the latest version of the da Vinci,” said Greg Rogers, president of MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland. “This robotic system actually extends our surgeon’s skills; it does not replace them. Our patients will benefit from smaller incisions, less pain, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and less scarring.”

The Si is the newest version of the da Vinci surgical system, providing greater precision and patient safety. The Si model is the only system that features enhanced 3D, high-definition images of the operating field, greater visual clarity, widescreen touch screen, more dexterous fingertip controls, adjustable ergonomic surgeon console and continual safety checks. These features add up to a precision that enables a more advanced minimally invasive approach to many complex surgical procedures.

During a procedure, the surgeon sits at a computer console, where they view images from inside the body and use hand controls to manipulate the da Vinci’s robotic arms. An eyepiece and endoscope magnify intricate procedures in high-definition detail. The da Vinci’s interactive arms can move the surgeon’s tools back and forth, side to side, and can rotate in a full circle.

For advanced training, proficiency and in preparation for procedures, MidMichigan is one of six providers in Michigan and the only hospital in the region to offer the da Vinci Skills Simulator™ to its physicians. The simulator offers virtual-reality training, containing a variety of exercises and scenarios designed to allow surgeons to master the robotic surgical system. This device looks and feels like the da Vinci Si model but allows surgeons to practice with virtual needles and other objects, instead of physical instruments.

“This technology takes surgery to new levels, and, most importantly, there is still a human presence behind the system,” said Shelli Wood, R.N., vice president and chief nursing officer at MidMichigan. “With high-quality images and greater range of motion, our surgeons can make extremely precise maneuvers not possible with the human hand alone.”

Surgeons can use the da Vinci for many different types of surgeries. Currently, MidMichigan is using the technology for gynecologic surgery, such as hysterectomy, and urologic surgeries including prostatectomy. Additional uses will become available in the coming months.

Those interested in more information about the da Vinci are encouraged to speak to their physician. For a physician referral, visit www.midmichigan.org/doctors or call MidMichigan Health Line at (989) 837-9090 in Midland or toll-free at (800) 999-3199.