Robotic Surgery for Gallbladder, Hernia and Colon Conditions

Mercy general surgeons and colorectal surgeons of The National Institute for Robotic Surgery in Baltimore, Maryland, perform robotic surgery to treat gallbladder, hernia and colon conditions. Our doctors work with patients individually to determine if robotic surgery is the best option for surgical treatment.

What is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (sometimes referred to as da Vinci robotic surgery) is minimally invasive surgery performed with the aid of a robot, which provides the surgeon the ability to perform more precise movements of the surgical instruments. The robot also allows the surgeon to see a 3D enhanced view of the inside of the body during the surgery.

How is Robotic Surgery performed?

Several small incisions are made in the abdomen to perform robotic surgery. The robotic arms, which hold the instruments, are inserted into surgical incisions and the surgeon controls the arm movements remotely from a console to complete the surgery.

When is Robotic Surgery the best treatment option?

Mercy's experienced physicians offer robotic surgery to appropriate patients for the treatment of gallbladder disease, hernia and colon conditions. Robotic surgery provides many benefits including, typically, a shorter hospital stay, less scarring and a faster return to daily activities, however, not all patients are good candidates for robotic surgery.

Mercy's team will evaluate a patient’s overall health as well as their individual diagnosis and severity to determine if robotic surgery may be a treatment option.

Dr. Thomas Swope, Director of The Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery at Mercy, helped pioneer robotic procedures in general surgery and has earned EpiCenter designation – awarded to experienced surgeons who continually experience high-quality outcomes for patients.