The field of surgery has evolved through the years, from the days when the only option was an open surgery (which requires large incisions), to the advancement of laparoscopic procedures and now, robotic-assisted surgery.
For those interested in learning more, here are some frequently asked questions about robotic surgery. If you have additional questions, please let us know – we’re here to answer them.
Q: When did Winona Health add robotic-assisted surgery capabilities? A: Winona Health brought robotic surgery technology to the Winona community in January 2023.
Q: Why did Winona Health invest in this technology? A: Surgery across the field is becoming less invasive, and robotic-assisted surgery is the technology that is making that possible. Robotic assisted surgery has been around for almost 25 years and for many surgeons is part of the training they receive during residency. For patients, the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery include reduced pain, lower risk of infection, less blood loss, less scarring and a faster return to normal activities. Winona Health is committed to using resources wisely and investing in technology that benefits our community so people can receive as much of their care as possible right here.
Q: Does the robot perform surgery? A: No. With robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon is still in control of the entire procedure. The robotic technology is impressive, but it takes the skill of our highly trained and knowledgeable surgeons to put that technology to use to benefit patients.
Q: What does robotic-assisted surgery really mean? A: Think of the surgical robot as an extension of the surgeon’s hands. The robot provides all the dexterity of a human hand and does exactly what the surgeon makes it do. It mimics their hand movements. Because the robotic tools are so much smaller, it allows the surgeon to perform the surgery through very small incisions.
The robotic tools include a camera that gives the surgeon a high-definition, 3-dimensional view of the surgical site, which allows them to see exactly what they need to see in incredible detail. And an extra “arm” provides an additional tool – like giving the surgeon control of an extra hand. In the simplest example, it’s like being able to put your own finger on the knot when you’re trying to tie a ribbon tight around a gift.
Q: When is robotic-assisted surgery used? A: It depends on each patient’s specific circumstances. Any time a patient needs surgery, we’re thinking about the best way to approach the procedure for that patient. Sometimes that means using the robot, sometimes that means doing an open surgery, sometimes that means doing a traditional laparoscopic surgery. But our goal is always the same – and that’s to have the best possible outcome and the quickest recovery for the patient.
It’s interesting to imagine life 130 years ago, when Winona Health was founded in 1894, and wonder what our ancestors would think about the medical technology we’re using at Winona Health today. We believe they would be amazed by today’s technology and proud of how we are continuing to care for our community and carry on their legacy.
As a doctor and a General Surgeon, it’s exciting to imagine the medical advancements yet to come.
Colin Kennedy, MD, General Surgeon at Winona Health
English 
Español 
Hmong