Sheba Medical Center has been utilizing advanced da Vinci robotic surgical systems for more than a decade for the purpose of performing minimally invasive surgical procedures. Last week, for the first time at Sheba, procedures were performed using the latest version of the system.
Robotic surgical systems do not operate independently, but expand the surgeon’s capabilities and allow surgeons to perform complex minimally invasive surgical procedures with precision and accuracy through the use of robotic arms. These arms are controlled by the surgeon through a dedicated console.
The new da Vinci Xi system represents the 4th generation of surgical robotic technology, taking surgical treatment to an entirely new level. The da Vinci Xi features 3D high-definition visualization that provides the clearest possible view of the surgical site, a greatly expanded range of motion, and improved manipulator capabilities. Additional features included a tremor filtration system which eliminates natural hand tremors and significantly enhances surgical precision.
While striving to provide its patients the highest quality care, Sheba Medical Center is also a leader in the education and training of the future generation of medical practitioners. The Da Vinci Xi offers Sheba an opportunity to significantly improve medical training, as it incorporates two control consoles that allow senior doctors to closely monitor procedures conducted by residents and quickly intervene if necessary.
Two complex surgical procedures, conducted by Dr. David Hazan, Director of The Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery Unit, and Dr. Ephraim Katz, were already completed using the new system. One of the procedures was an esophageal surgery performed on a patient who suffered from trouble swallowing and multiple episodes of pneumonia. According to Dr. Hazan: “The new robot had a key role in the procedure, as repairing the esophagus requires utmost precision. The combination of the robot’s technological capabilities and the surgeon’s skill provides the best therapeutic solution for the patients.”
For her part, Dr. Dina Orkin, Director of Sheba Medical Center’s Operating Room Department, added: “This marks a significant step towards realizing Sheba’s vision of advancing minimally invasive robotic procedures to ensure the quality and safety of surgeries and promote the training of future surgeons.”
