Mercy Hospital Southwest completes first robotic-assisted surgery

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Dignity Health is celebrating advancements in health care here in Kern County.

Mercy Hospital Southwest recently completed their first robotic-assisted surgical procedure.

The successful use of the new technology brings minimally invasive surgery options to the local community and improves outcomes for patients.

Colorectal Surgeon Dr. Lorenc Malellari joined ARC Bakersfield to share more details about the new technology.

Dr. Malellari says the robotic-assisted surgical program helps reduce recovery time for patients and leads to shorter hospital stays.