SJHS Plymouth Medical Center Introduces Robotic Surgery

PLYMOUTH, Ind. — Saint Joseph Health System Plymouth Medical Center is setting a new standard for care in Marshall County with the introduction of the da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgical System. Plymouth Medical Center is the only hospital in the county to offer this innovative tool.

“Caring for our community means investing in the technologies that will have a great impact on the care of our patients,” said Dan Kunde, Administrator, Plymouth Medical Center. “We have committed deep resources by investing in technology, people and capabilities that allow us to give our patients access to leading healthcare and peace of mind.”

As a part of their care, surgeons, Dr. Brian Piazza and Dr. Jim Dammon of Marshall County Surgery Associates have started introducing this technology to their patients as an option for surgery. “Robotic surgical techniques have enhanced the way we are able to provide care,” said Piazza. “At our direction, the robotic surgical system enables us to be extremely precise and make smaller incisions. For our patients that means dramatically reduced recovery times and getting back to their lives sooner.”

Though it is often called a “robot,” the da Vinci system cannot act on its own — surgery is performed completely by the physician. The da Vinci system consists of a computer console and robotic arms with flexible wrists that hold a tiny camera and micro-instruments. During surgery, the surgeon sits at the computer console, viewing a highly magnified 3-D image of the patient’s anatomy while using hand-and-finger devices to precisely direct the robotic arms. Wristed instruments and fingertip control provide a degree of motion and dexterity that is vital in complex suturing and dissection.

“The precision and results we have seen with this advanced surgical system have been remarkable,” added Dammon. “Having this level of care in our community makes it a little easier for our patients and their families because it is now available closer to where they live and work.”

The daVinci system is used in a variety of surgical procedures such as gall bladder removal and hernia repairs. For more information about robotic surgery, call Marshall County Surgery Associates at 574-948-5170 or visit sjmed.com.