WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital performs first cases with new da Vinci robot

On Wednesday, June 5, and Friday, June 7, surgeons at WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital performed their first 5 surgical cases featuring the newly installed Intuitive da Vinci Xi Surgical System. Dr. Matthew Metz and Dr. Rami Abraham, both general surgeons at Reynolds Memorial Hospital, each performed multiple surgeries utilizing the new robotic system with high quality results and patient outcomes. Reynolds Memorial Hospital has been steadily investing in facility and technology upgrades, and this new technology firmly establishes their commitment to high quality outcomes and patient safety.

There are several benefits to both the patient and the surgeon with the use of robotics. These systems are designed to help surgeons perform minimally invasive surgery, which means smaller incisions, less damage to surrounding tissue, less overall trauma to the body, and quicker recovery times. “We are proud of the strides we’ve made in patient safety, satisfaction, and overall outcomes in the last several years”, says Tony Martinelli, WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital President. “The da Vinci robotics systems will only help us continue to deliver on our promise of bringing the highest quality services to the people of the Ohio Valley”, he continues. Intuitive da Vinci systems, like the systems in place at Reynolds Memorial Hospital, offer surgeons high-definition 3D vision, a magnified view, and robotic and computer assistance. They use specialized instrumentation, including a miniaturized surgical camera and wristed instruments (i.e., scissors, scalpels, and forceps) that are designed to help with precise dissection and reconstruction deep inside the body.

Pictured below, from left to right, in front of the da Vinci surgical system are: Erin Carr, Surg Tech; Dr. Matthew Metz, Director of General Surgery; Megan Armstrong, Surg Tech; Jayme Garrison, RN IV; and Megan Thomas, Surg Tech.