Dr. Robert Furr provided a glimpse into the future of modern minimally-invasive surgery at Parkridge East Hospital on Thursday, when he performed the first single-incision robotic-assisted hysterectomy in the state of Tennessee using a new technology known as the GelPOINT Advanced Access surgical platform.
The platform features a ‘pseudo-abdomen’ that allows surgeons to use multiple devices through a single incision in the patient’s body, while giving physicians the freedom of movement needed to perform delicate and complex procedures. According to a representative for Applied Medical, the device’s manufacturer, the technology provides significant benefit for both patients and hospitals. Patients concerned with the cosmetic impact of surgery will appreciate that there is almost no visible scarring with the GelPOINT procedure, thanks to the fact that the single surgical incision is usually made in the navel.
Other more substantial benefits are offered as well. The company reports that patients typically need fewer drugs with GelPOINT single-incision surgery, there is usually less blood loss and the likelihood of post-operative pain is lessened. The technology can be used in a variety of minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic procedures for men and women. Physicians may use this technology for gynecologic, urologic and general surgeries.
“I think this type of surgery will certainly become more common, and will be used in a wide variety of cases,” said Dr. Furr, noting that most patients with a Body Mass Index below 35 are good candidates for this type of procedure. “Overall, the trend is that minimally invasive surgery is becoming even less invasive – our goal is to lessen cosmetic impact on the patient, while reducing post-operative pain and shortening recovery times.”
Parkridge Health System is the only hospital system in the Chattanooga area to offer robotic surgery on two campuses, with robotic-assisted procedures performed at both Parkridge Medical Center and Parkridge East Hospital. Parkridge is home to the region’s most experienced surgery team, with over 1,000 procedures performed to date.