FLORENCE– Robotic surgery has been expanded to colorectal surgery at North Alabama
Medical Center, with the area’s first board-certified colorectal surgeon trained in robotic procedures. NAMC is one of the few hospitals in Alabama and the only in the Shoals area to perform minimally invasive robotic colorectal surgeries using the da Vinci Surgical System, the latest generation of robotic minimally invasive surgery technology. The da Vinci Surgical System offers surgeons enhanced visual technology, broader capabilities and improved instrument control.
On June 13, Wesley Desselle, MD, completed NAMC and the Shoals Area’s first two robotic assisted colon resections, surgical removal of one side of the patient’s colon, using the da Vinci Surgical System.
Wesley Desselle, MD
The da Vinci system consists of a variety of mechanical arms and viewers that are operated by the surgeon, allowing much greater precision.
The patient experienced less post-operative pain, fewer complications and fast recovery time, said the hospital.
“I’m very happy we are now able to offer residents of our community robotic colon resections,” said Desselle. “We want to provide cutting-edge technology which will allow our neighbors and community members to remain close to home while receiving surgical care.”
Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatments of colon and rectal problems. To meet board certification, Dr. Desselle has completed advanced training in these areas, in addition to full training in general surgery.
Colorectal surgeons treat benign and malignant conditions, conduct routine screening examinations and surgically treat problems when necessary.
“At North Alabama Medical Center, we continue to stay at the forefront of robotic-assisted surgical technology,” said Russell Pigg, CEO. “A spectrum of procedures can be performed with a surgical robot with greater accuracy and control than open or laparoscopic surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery is a technological advancement, and its use is likely to expand rapidly in multiple medical fields.”
North Alabama Medical Center mandates completion of training and certification to demonstrate proficiency and safety in executing essential robotic skills and procedural tasks prior to independent practice.
This technology is emerging and evolving as a powerful tool. NAMC is a proud supporter – highlighting the improved patient outcomes that robotic technology has enabled our surgeons to achieve.
North Alabama Medical Center strive to provide our patients with the best services, programs, providers, and technologies – bringing world-class care close to home for our community.
Media Release/Randa Hovater/Director, Communications and Marketing/North Alabama Medical Center
