Minimally invasive surgical technology offers options for several types of procedures

GLENDALE – Surgeons at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus have completed more than 5000 total robot-assisted surgical procedures, a milestone for the Northwest Valley hospital known for its surgical programs. More than 1000 of those procedures will have been completed in 2019 alone.

In minimally invasive surgery, doctors use a variety of techniques to operate with less damage to the body than with open surgery. Laparoscopy, one of the first minimally invasive techniques, is surgery done through small incisions, using small tubes and tiny cameras and surgical instruments.

Robotic surgical techniques take minimally invasive procedures a step further by using computer guidance and magnified, 3-D views of the surgical site. That helps the surgeon operate with precision, flexibility and improved control.

The pace of minimally invasive procedures using robotic-assisted surgical technology continues on an upward trajectory, said Jeff Patterson, chief executive officer at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus.

“Continual innovations in minimally invasive surgery have made robot-assisted procedures an option for patients with a wide range of conditions. The daVinci is often used for gynecology, urology, cancer, hernia repair and other procedures,” explained Patterson.

“Robotic surgery is the biggest advancement in surgical care in the last two decades. The technology provides the ability for us to perform procedures that have traditionally been done through large incision and now completed with incisions that are less than an inch. This has clearly improved patient care and their quality of life. Abrazo Arrowhead Campus has the state of the art robotic surgical platforms where my patients get excellent care. I am honored to be a part of such a great surgical team,” said gynecologic oncology surgeon Dr. Dennis Scribner.

Abrazo Arrowhead Campus often hosts education and training opportunities for surgeons from other hospitals who travel to Glendale to learn techniques used in robot-assisted surgery. The hospital also is home to Abrazo Health’s General Surgery Residency Program, which brings new surgeons to the community who work closely with local physicians for real-world learning opportunities.

“I’m so pleased with the Abrazo Arrowhead Campus team which has supported all of the surgeons in reaching this milestone. The OR staff, nurses and technicians worked nonstop to make this possible, and along with the floor nurses and ancillary staff, have made the Abrazo Arrowhead robotics program the best in the region. I am very proud of this facility and this achievement,” said colorectal surgeon Dr. Debora Fox-McClary.

Robotic surgical technology at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus includes:

• daVinci Surgical System is a robotic surgical system designed to facilitate complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach, and is controlled by a surgeon from a console. Three daVinci surgical robots are in service at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus.
• Navio Surgical System is a robotics-assisted platform that uses CT-free technology for accurate implant sizing and positioning without the need for rods. The Navio Surgical System can be used for either a partial or total knee replacement procedure.

“Our surgical programs offer a collaborative clinical environment and a focus patient advocacy,” added Patterson. “We are committed to providing quality care and a safe environment for each of our patients.”