Robotic Surgery
What is Robotic Surgery?
Robotic surgery is also called robot-assisted surgery. Your surgeon uses a robotic system that includes a camera and mechanical arms. The mechanical arms have surgical instruments attached. Your surgeon controls the arms to perform precise, controlled movements. They use the camera to view a magnified image of your surgical site.
Robotic surgery helps your surgeon perform many different types of procedures with advanced precision and control.
Areas of Robotic Surgery
We offer robotic surgery in several specialties:
- Abdominal surgical oncology
- Acute care surgery
- Cancer treatment
- Colorectal
- Diaphragm Plication
- Endocrine surgery
- Endoscopic spine surgery
- Gynecology
- Robotic bariatric surgery
- Robotic heart surgery
- Thoracic
- Transplant
- Urology
Cutting Edge Robotic Surgery Treatments in Utah
At Â鶹ѧÉú¾«Æ·°æ, our expert surgeons are national leaders in robotic techniques. We began offering robotic surgery in 2005 and have performed 11,000+ robotic surgeries. In 2024, we were the first medical center in the Mountain West to offer single-port robotic surgery. We were also the first in Utah to offer DV5—a robotic platform with several advanced features such as AI and haptic feedback.
Our head and neck surgery, TORS (transoral robotic surgery) program is the leading program in the region. Our robotic cardiac program is part of our Destination Care Program and the only robotic cardiac surgery program in the Mountain West.
The Latest in Robotic Technology
Our team uses the latest technologies to improve patient outcomes. We are proud to offer robotic surgery as a safe and effective approach to several health conditions.
Our robotic fleet includes ten robotic platforms spread across several locations:
Training Tomorrow’s Robotic Surgery Experts
Many of our surgeons are national experts and proctors. Our experts teach the latest techniques to new surgeons around the country. As part of our mission to expand the robotic surgery program, we developed a robotic surgery training program. Our training program ensures surgeons have the most up-to-date knowledge to provide you with the best possible care.
Meet the Fleet
Your team will match you to the surgical system best suited to your specific needs. Each machine is designed to ensure you receive the best care possible. We have multiple robotic platforms in our fleet:
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da Vinci XI
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da Vinci SP (single port)
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DV5
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ION
da Vinci XI Surgery System
The da Vinci Surgical System is the standard for robotic surgery. We use the robot for a variety of procedures in the abdomen and chest including tumor removal and structural repair.
da Vinci 5 Surgery System
The da Vinci 5 is the latest in the da Vinic surgical system. Its advanced system contains enhanced visualization, force feedback, and greater precision.
Single-Port Surgery System
The single-port surgical system uses one entry point. This means that all the instruments go through one spot. This can be helpful to reduce scarring. It also allows access to tight spaces like the back of the throat. Learn more about our single-port robot.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery
Robotic-assisted surgery can increase precision and control during your operation. The robot helps your surgeon perform delicate and complex procedures that may not be possible otherwise. The advanced technology allows your surgical team to better see your surgical site compared to traditional surgery. Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure with several benefits:
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Smaller scars
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Shorter hospital stay
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Quicker recovery
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Less pain and time under anesthesia
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Fewer complications
How Does Robotic Surgery Work?
1. Preparing for Surgery
On the day of your procedure, you’ll meet with your surgical team. Together, you’ll review your procedure. They’ll make sure you’re comfortable and answer any last questions you might have. When you’re ready, they’ll put you under anesthesia.
2. Positioning and Setup
After you’re asleep, your team sets up the robotic system. The robot is customized to your specific procedure.
3. Your Procedure
Your surgeon operates the robotic system from a nearby console. They see a magnified detailed view of your surgical site thanks to a high-definition, 3D camera. Your care team monitors you throughout your procedure to ensure your safety.
When your surgery is finished, the robotic instruments are carefully removed. Your incisions are closed. Incisions for robotic surgery are usually small and tend to heal faster than traditional surgery.
4. Recovery
After surgery, you’ll wake up in a recovery area. Nurses will monitor your care and manage your comfort. Most robotic surgeries allow you to return home faster. Your care team will give you instructions on how to recover at home. The length of time you spend in the hospital as well as your overall recovery depend on the type of operation performed.
Hear From Our Specialists
New Robotic Surgical Systems Revolutionizing Patient Care
The introduction of two da Vinci 5 systems enhances surgery precision and decreases recovery times for patients. This strengthens Huntsman Cancer Institute’s role as a leader in robotic surgical care.
Talks with Docs: Hilary McCrary, MD, MPH
Hilary McCrary, MD, MPH, discusses the advancements in the head and neck cancer care, specifically the single-port robot, as well as the importance of getting vaccinated against HPV.
Single-Port Robotic Surgery is Making its Debut in the Mountain West
A new treatment for patients with head and neck cancers is available at Huntsman Cancer Institute. Single-port robotic surgery is a game-changer now accessible for people in the Mountain West.
Talks with Docs: Brian Mitzman, MD
General thoracic surgeon Brian Mitzman, MD, at Huntsman Cancer Institute describes what to expect during robotic-assisted surgery, what drew him to the field, and possible future treatment options.
Robotic Thoracic Surgery Reduces Pain, Recovery Time, and Complications
Minimally invasive robotic surgery for lung, esophageal, and mediastinal mass resections achieve several benefits for patients, such as shorter hospital stays, less post-operative pain, and a lower chance of complications. Huntsman Cancer Institute is the only hospital in the entire Mountain West using the Intuitive da Vinci® and ION Robotic Surgical Systems for thoracic surgery.
