The system allows a surgeon to sit at a console with numerous controls that provide detailed handling of a variety of implements on four independent arms.

The equipment has been used for more than 30 surgeries by the general surgery and urology departments at Warren General since it was put into service in mid-January.

In order to support the hospital in continuing to bring leading-edge technology to Warren, the Community Foundation of Warren County, with support from numerous community entities, presented a check for $400,000 to the hospital this week.

CEO Rick Allen said it was important to remember that the robotic-assist system is not appropriate for all surgeries, but results in smaller incisions, faster healing, and shorter hospital stays for many of the patients for whom it is appropriate.

Warren General Hospital Director of Surgical Service Michele Welker talks with Community Foundation of Warren County board members about the Da Vinci robotic surgery system and the operation of it.

“There are many great benefits for our patients,” Director of Surgical Services Michele Welker said. “The patients have been thrilled with it.”

The board members were curious if staff or patients were hesitant because of the unfamiliarity of the equipment.

Neither has been the case, according to Welker. “People were excited that they don’t have to travel” for the technology, she said. “We couldn’t have asked for a better roll-out from a staff participation standpoint.”

Another Community Foundation question was whether the surgeon has to be close to the robotic-assist, or could surgery be handled remotely.

While remote surgery is possible, it is important to have the surgery on-site, in case there is an electrical problem or issue with the equipment. “The backup is the surgeon stands up and takes over,” Allen said.

The Da Vinci robotic surgery system is set up in a room, not an operating room, at Warren General Hospital for a presentation to members of the Community Foundation of Warren County board of directors.

For now, the equipment is being used for general surgery and urology. The next department expected to make use of it is obstetrics and gynecology, Allen said. “In two years and four years time, we will have two female OB/GYNs and they will be fully-trained on the equipment.”

Allen expressed his thanks to the Community Foundation, the DeFrees Family Memorial Fund, the Betts Foundation, and United Refining Co., as well as many other entities that provide ongoing support to the hospital.