First Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgeries Performed at Florida Hospital North Pinellas

FLORIDA HOSPITAL North Pinellas (photo courtesy Florida Hospital North Pinellas

Surgeons Perform Robotic Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Sigmoid Colon Resection Rectopexy

Tarpon Springs, Fla.– (November 7, 2013) – The first minimally invasive surgeries utilizing the da Vinci Surgical System at Florida Hospital North Pinellas, were performed today by two of the area’s leading surgeons. Raj Kotak, MD, a board-certified General Surgeon, performed a Robotic Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Lourdes Santiago, MD, a board-certified Colorectal and General Surgeon, performed a Robotic Laparoscopic Sigmoid Colon Resection Rectopexy.

Both procedures were performed using the da Vinci Surgical System robot – which offers patients a less invasive option for numerous surgical procedures – including for gallbladder removal and rectal prolapse procedures like those performed today at Florida Hospital North Pinellas.

“The incredible skill of our surgeons combined with the amazing technology offered by robotic surgery is a win-win for our patients,” said Bruce Bergherm, President & CEO. “Not only are these procedures less invasive, but the recovery period is significantly reduced.”

Other benefits of minimally invasive robotic surgeries include less pain, less bleeding, a shorter hospital stay and significantly reduced scarring.