Many patients needing bariatric surgery make the unfortunate decision to postpone their surgery due to dreading the recovery time. However, at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), patients facing bariatric surgery can often be relieved knowing their procedure can be performed using a minimally invasive approach.
Board Certified Bariatric and General Surgeon Amy Johnson, MD, FACS, FASMBS, performs most weight loss surgery procedures laparoscopically, but also uses the da Vinci Xi Surgical System.
The da Vinci system enables surgeons to perform delicate and complex operations through robotic-assisted surgery. This state-of-the-art technology follows the surgeon’s hand movements from the console and provides the surgeon with highly magnified three-dimensional views.
Qualifying patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery have tiny incisions instead of a large opening. This option, most times, offers a quicker recovery time and less pain than traditional open surgery, but with the same benefits as traditional surgery. Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays, less pain and scarring, less risk of infection, and less blood loss. Most importantly, patients typically see a faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activities.
“The da Vinci is a special tool that uses a robotic platform that allows me to see three-dimensionally during surgery and have greater maneuverability,” said Dr. Johnson.
