First Robotic-Assisted Surgery Performed at Loma Linda University Medical Center

The first robotic assisted anti-reflux surgery using the newest innovation of the da Vinci Surgical System has been performed at Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC), making it the first Inland Empire hospital to do so. A hiatal hernia repair (or anti-reflux procedure) was performed using the da Vinci Xi on Friday, Sept. 11, by Marcos Michelotti, MD, and his surgical team. “Having the new da Vinci system is a testament to Loma Linda University Medical Center’s dedication to remain innovative and dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients,” said Dr. Michelotti, chief, division of general surgery. “I look forward to utilizing this amazing machine to its fullest potential.” Located on the surgical floor of LLUMC, the da Vinci Xi can be used for cancer surgeries, resection of complex tumors and any other complex general surgeries in the abdomen in both adult and pediatric patients, making Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital the second pediatric facility on the west coast to utilize the da Vinci Xi system. The robotic system is optimized for complex four-quadrant surgery featuring revolutionary anatomical access, crystal clear 3DHD vision and a platform designed to seamlessly integrate future innovations. The new system is more compact and allows more efficient usability giving more freedom of movement. Michelotti added, “This new system allows us to operate in different quadrants of the abdomen without repositioning the system. It saves time and navigates the abdomen in a more efficient manner.” Compared to prior da Vinci systems, the da Vinci Xi system’s key features include: • A new overhead instrument arm architecture designed to facilitate anatomical access from virtually any position. • A new endoscope digital architecture that creates a simpler, more compact design with improved visual definition and clarity. • The ability to attach the endoscope to any arm, providing flexibility for visualizing the surgical site. • Smaller, thinner arms with newly designed joints that offer a greater range of motion than ever before. • Longer instrument shafts designed to give surgeons greater operative reach. The da Vinci Xi Surgical System is an expandable technology platform that is designed to accommodate and seamlessly integrate a range of current technologies in areas such as imaging, advanced instruments and anatomical access, as well as future innovations.