Provided Photo The members of UP Health System Portage Robotic Surgical Team. The team recently marked 100 robotic surgeries.

In September 2024, UP Health System – Portage acquired a Robotic-assisted Surgical System through a $2 million investment from Lifepoint Health and last week announced it has reached a milestone in technological innovation by performing 100 robotic-assisted surgical cases, all with positive outcomes.

UPHS – Portage has been a leader in surgical care for patients in the Copper Country, but recent advancements in technology and highly skilled and experienced physicians have catapulted the facility to new heights, giving patients access to quality, lifesaving care right here at home.

“Reaching 100 robotic-assisted surgical cases is a milestone that reflects our commitment to innovation, precision, and patient-centered care. This achievement not only showcases the expertise of our surgical team but also highlights the improved outcomes and faster recoveries we are providing to our patients. Robotic surgery is the future, and we are proud to be leading the way,” said Donna McMullen, director of perioperative and anesthesia services at UPHS – Portage.

Robotic-assisted surgery utilizes smaller incisions and few surgical movements, which can lessen postoperative pain for patients and can result in quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays. While using the da Vinci system, a trained surgeon is in the operating room with the patient, seated at a console with full control over the small robotic instruments that enable them to perform precise and complex surgery. The 3D-HD image can be magnified up to ten times so the surgeon has a close-up view of the area they are operating on, and the robotic instruments have mechanical wrists that bend and rotate to mimic the movements of the human wrist.

Abdominal and gynecological surgeries–including hysterectomy, treatment of endometriosis and uterine fibroids, gallbladder removal, appendix removal and hernia repair are currently being offered, with room for growth to offer even more. A hysterectomy procedure done robotically is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the uterus with precision and enhanced control. This advanced surgical technique offers numerous benefits for patients, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, robotic-assisted hysterectomies typically result in less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster recovery, allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner. The increased precision of the robotic system also helps preserve surrounding tissues, leading to better outcomes and reduced scarring.

“I see a lot of patients suffering in pain and need of surgical intervention. Sometimes, they’ll delay necessary treatment out of fear. For patients who are good candidates for robotic surgery, this is a great option and one that can help ease their worries since it’s minimally invasive,” said Dr. Evon Schexnaydre.

In a robotic appendectomy, small incisions are made and robotic instruments help remove the inflamed appendix with greater accuracy, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery. Similarly, robotic hernia repair allows for precise placement of mesh and sutures, minimizing tissue trauma and improving long-term outcomes. Patients undergoing these procedures benefit from reduced pain, less blood loss, smaller scars, and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery. The advanced visualization and dexterity provided by robotic technology contribute to more efficient, safer procedures, ultimately improving patient recovery and overall surgical success.

“Being able to perform both of these procedures now robotically allows for unmatched precision and minimal trauma. Patients experience less pain, faster recovery, and better overall outcomes, making it a game-changer in surgical care,” said Dr. Tim Sears.

“At UPHS – Portage, we’re committed to providing high-quality healthcare options for our community,” said CEO Ryan Heinonen. “We want our patients to explore and understand all options available to them and know they can get outstanding care close to home. We’re very proud to have this new technology in our surgical arsenal and achieving milestones with our experienced group of surgeons.”

To learn more about robotic-assisted surgery at UP Health System – Portage, visit UPHealthSystem.com.