Merit Health Biloxi Adds New Surgical System to Surgical Robotics Capabilities

6/30/2016

Merit Health Biloxi has acquired an additional surgical robotics system. Robotic surgical systems are already at use at Merit Health Biloxi, however the newest system was designed with the goal of further advancing the technology used in minimally invasive surgery. The system can be used across a spectrum of minimally invasive surgical procedures with integrated table motion and has been optimized for multi-quadrant surgeries in the areas of gynecology, urology, thoracic, colorectal and general surgery.

The new system is a technological leap forward in replacing traditional, large-incision surgeries with a minimally invasive approach and also adds benefits and capabilities over traditional laparoscopic surgery. Merit Health Biloxi is the first institution on the Mississippi Gulf Coast to use this surgical platform.

Joshua Tyler, M.D., colorectal surgeon, performed the first surgery utilizing the new system at Merit Health Biloxi. Dr. Tyler says, "The new instrumentation provides distinct technological and visualization benefits over conventional laparoscopic surgery. This is an excellent added capability for patients in South Mississippi."

By enabling efficient access throughout the abdomen or chest, the system expands upon other robotic core features, including wristed instruments, 3D-HD visualization, intuitive motion, and an ergonomic design. The surgeon is 100% in control of the robotic-assisted system, which translates his/her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient's body. The systems immersive 3D-HD vision system provides surgeons a highly magnified view, virtually extending their eyes and hands into the patient.

David Spencer, M.D., urologist, says “For the patient, this type of robotic surgery means lower blood loss, less scarring, a quicker return to physical functions and a shorter hospital stay. It also means resuming normal activities much quicker than with traditional surgery and I am excited to be able to offer patients’ this option.”

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