MIDDLEBURG — The da Vinci 5 robotic surgeon showed off its powerful, intricate skills once again during St. Vincent Clay’s special Open House session.
The event gave a group of local community members and doctors the chance to take a look at the innovative, new technology up close and try it for themselves. The Intuitive da Vinci 5 was first introduced to St. Vincent’s Clay earlier this year. The robotic surgeon, similar to the XI model, is said to enhance the capabilities of skilled surgeons, providing minimally invasive procedures with advanced technology.
It’s the first of its kind in Clay County. Used for malignant and benign cases, like gall bladder and appendix removals, colectomies and hernia repairs, surgeons conduct the entire operation using a console with hand controls, a high-definition screen and loudspeaker.
The da Vinci 5’s four interactive arms perform the procedure and act as extensions of the surgeon’s hands. However, the surgeon remains in full control.
During Monday’s event, those who test drove the machine for the first time, with the help of an Intuitive representative, practiced using the hand controls to simulate removing polyps from an intestine.
Featuring more than 150 enhancements, the machine includes improved accuracy and precision during surgery, 3-D display and 10,000 times more computing power.
Incisions are less than an inch, which, in turn, is less pain and a faster recovery for patients. Force feedback also allows a better gauge on tissue tension, creating a softer, safer outcome.