Robotic Surgery Program now performed at Cook County Health
CHICAGO (CBS) — A robot could soon operate on patients at Stroger Hospital who need surgery.
Cook County Health officially launched its Robotic Surgery Program.
County board members and health officials gathered at Stroger on Wednesday for the big reveal.
They said robotic surgery is often better for patients because it can be less invasive and performed through small incisions.
The goal is to ensure that all patients, regardless of age, race, wealth, or status, can access the best possible medical care.
"In making robotic surgery possible at Stroger Hospital, Cook County Health is demonstrating its commitment to health equity and advancement to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care," said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
According to Cook County, more than 10,000 surgeries were performed at Stroger Hospital last year. As the program expands next year, Cook County Health is expected to take on more than 500 robotic-assisted surgeries in 2024.
Cook County Health said robotic surgery helps with complex operations, making very small incisions, including:
- Less blood loss during the procedure
- Less pain after the procedure
- Less scarring and fewer complications
- Shorter recovery time
"The robotic system gives the surgeon a high-definition and magnified view of the surgical field. The instruments move like a human hand but with a greater range of motion, allowing for smaller, more precise cuts," said Dr. Alexander Sauper, Chair of Surgical Critical Care.
The county will use the da Vinci® surgical system for general, cardiothoracic, colorectal, head & neck, gynecological and urologic surgeries at Stroger Hospital.