Huntsman Cancer Institute is leading the way with advanced robotic surgery technology

Huntsman Cancer Institute is leading the way with advanced robotic surgery technology

The Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah (U) proudly announces the addition of two da Vinci robotic surgery systems. This cutting-edge technology is designed to improve precision, control and safety in minimally invasive surgeries and set a new standard for patient care. These advances align with Huntsman Cancer Institute's focus on successfully delivering world-class cancer care through innovative treatments.

This is a significant leap forward in robotic surgery. Force feedback technology provides instant, tactile information and allows us to perform procedures with unparalleled precision. This technology offers significant benefits to patients. “

Brian Mitzman, MD, MS, FACS, FCCP, Huntsman Cancer Institute Investigator, assistant professor of cardiothoracic surgery at the U and the medical director of robotic surgery at University of Utah Health

The introduction of the Da Vinci 5 is a major milestone in the Huntsman Cancer Institute's commitment to providing innovative, high-peak care to communities in the Mountain West. With robotic arms that mimic a surgeon's hand movements and enhanced visualization capabilities, the Da Vinci 5 enables complex surgeries through small incisions, reducing hospital stays and speeding recovery times.

“I am pleased that our patients at Huntsman Cancer Institute now have access to the Da Vinci 5,” said Sachin Aptte, MD, MBA, chief clinical officer at Huntsman Cancer Institute and chief medical officer at the cancer hospital. "This innovative platform incorporates advanced surgical senses and data analytics to not only provide our surgeons with safe and effective care, but also improve surgical performance. The Da Vinci 5 is a transformative advance in minimally invasive surgeries."

The Da Vinci 5 offers a wide range of surgical specialties, and this versatility allows Huntsman Cancer Institute to offer minimally invasive options for a variety of complex procedures, including thoracic, urologic, gynecologic, colorectal, and head and neck surgeries.

Promoting surgical innovation

The Huntsman Cancer Institute has long been at the forefront of robotic surgery. It was the first cancer center in the Mountain West to offer single-portion robotic surgery earlier in 2024 and is now the first in Utah to offer the Da Vinci 5 to patients. The addition of the DA Vinci 5 expands Huntsman Cancer Institute's existing robotic surgery program, which now includes nine platforms at five locations.

“We are at the epicenter of robotic surgery,” says Mitzman. "We have 38 active robotic surgeons and a robust training program that ensures we are always advancing our expertise. Our surgeons not only perform these procedures, but also teach other physicians at cancer centers across the country how to use this technology."

Unlike traditional surgical procedures, the DA Vinci 5 allows surgeons to receive real-time feedback and insights during operations. The system's artificial intelligence provides detailed analysis of each procedure, helping surgeons optimize their techniques.

“The platform’s case insights can measure everything from the force applied during surgery to the efficiency of a surgeon’s movements,” says Mitzman. “These insights are invaluable to both trainees and experienced surgeons and help us continually improve our skills and outcomes.”

A patient's perspective

Denise Dailey, one of the first patients to undergo surgery with the Da Vinci 5 at Huntsman Cancer Institute, shared her experience.

“I went home the next day with no restrictions,” Dailey says. "The recovery was a breeze compared to what other people have told me about traditional surgeries. After being discharged, I didn't need any pain medication and my breathing is completely normal."

Dailey was initially concerned about the impact of the surgery on her daily life. However, she was pleasantly surprised by the seamless recovery process and compassionate care she received at Huntsman Cancer Institute.

"Dr. Mitzman's diagnosis was spot on, and instead of removing my entire lung, he was able to perform a wedge resection," adds Denise. “I even got my hair done the next week and no one could tell I had been in surgery.”

The Future of Robotic Surgery at Huntsman Cancer Institute

Since the introduction of robotic surgery in 2005, Huntsman Cancer Institute has performed more than 10,000 robotic-assisted procedures, with the number increasing exponentially. Huntsman Cancer Institute plans to continue expanding its robotic surgery program by acquiring additional platforms, training more surgeons and hiring specialists in robotic procedures.

“We strive to be the best of the best in robotic surgery,” says Mitzman. "This new technology not only improves patient outcomes, but also ensures our communities have access to the strongest care available. We have doubled our robotic fleet in the past year alone, demonstrating our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advances."

Mitzman estimates the new Da Vinci 5 will be used in about 500 surgeries between the U and Huntsman Cancer Institutes this year.

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