First in Central Texas to use new single-port robot for urology surgeries

AUSTIN, Texas--St. David's South Austin Medical Center is the first and only facility in Central Texas to use a new advanced surgical robot to perform minimally invasive urology surgeries. The da Vinci Single-Port Robot enables surgeons to perform complex procedures through a single 1.5-inch abdominal incision, as opposed to multiple incisions or a single large incision, which is usually required for standard procedures. This helps alleviate patient discomfort, reduces blood loss, minimizes scarring, shortens the hospital stay, and in general, allows for a quicker recovery.

"The use of this technology underscores our commitment to providing the highest level of patient care using the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical options," Dr. Carl Bischoff, urologist at St. David's South Austin Medical Center, said. "Patients who undergo procedures using this new technology have better outcomes and reduced recovery time than those who undergo more invasive urology surgeries."

The new platform features a flexible camera that provides better visibility, allowing surgeons to view areas that are difficult to see when using more traditional methods. This enables surgeons at St. David's South Austin Medical Center to perform more delicate and precise procedures.

"With this new technology, we can now treat cancers that previously were not suited for robotic surgery," Dr. Peter Ruff, urologist at St. David's South Austin Medical Center, said. "It is particularly effective in the treatment of prostate, kidney and bladder cancers."

St. David's South Austin Medical Center is currently using the single-port robot to treat various urological conditions, including the removal of the prostate, kidneys and cysts.

The da Vinci Single-Port Robot was approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) for complex urology procedures in May 2018. St. David's South Austin Medical Center is one of only three facilities in Texas and one of 40 hospitals in the U.S. to offer this technology.