By Nick Gilbert
Following the successful achievement of robotic single-site cholecystectomy on March 27, Saint Joseph Hospital became the second healthcare provider in Cook County to remove gallbladder via single belly button incision.
This single-site cholecystectomy at Saint Joseph Hospital was performed by Surgeon Rami Lutfi, MD, FACS. With the help of the robotic arm, a camera was inserted within the patient’s body in addition to specific tiny curved instruments that can remove the gallbladder via a small opening. This da Vinci Si Surgical System-based minimally invasive procedure was completed within an hour.
Dr. Lutfi sits at a console beside the robot during the surgical procedure, from where he controls the robotic arms with his hands. The device includes a monitor that shows 3-D visualization. This visual aid enables the surgeon to have precise control over the procedure. The robotic equipment enables internal navigation to complex areas.
Roberson was one of two patients to have a successful robotic-based gall blabber removal surgery at Saint Joseph Hospital. Within a few days after the surgery, the patient was able to cook her own meals and walk without any assistance.
After the follow-up exam, Roberson was able to take up her job again in just two weeks post the surgery. Roberson said that she would recommend this procedure.
This surgery is effective for both men and women having gallstones, or a diseased gallbladder without stones.
Source: http://saintjosephhospital.reshealth.org/