HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center is thrilled to announce the acquisition of the latest in robotic-assisted, non-invasive surgery with the next-generation surgical system now in operation. This marks the facility’s fifth robotic system, enhancing its fleet of surgical robotic equipment and allowing the hospital to meet the growing demand for minimally invasive surgical options.
The hospital successfully completed the first case using this groundbreaking robotic system, when Terry Scarborough, M.D., Medical Director of Bariatric Surgery at HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center, performed robotic gastric bypass surgery and hernia repair on Lavera Strange. For Strange, this life-altering surgery was an ideal way to kick off the New Year.
Strange faces several health challenges, including diabetes, cardiac concerns, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and acid reflux. After experiencing side effects from GLP-1 medication, she sought alternatives. Encouraged by her sister, who had undergone bariatric surgery, Strange began her journey toward weight loss.
As a mother of a 26-year-old daughter, Strange is motivated to improve her health for both herself and her family. She turned to the Redefine Clinical Weight Loss program, HCA Houston Healthcare’s premier bariatric weight loss initiative, when she recognized the need for change. “I want to be here for my daughter now and in the future and that is what motivates me to make healthier choices,” said Levara Strange.
“This new robotic surgical system allows for more precise movements of small instruments inside the patient’s body while performing multifaceted procedures,” said Dr. Terry Scarborough. “While this is a step forward in robotic surgery at the hospital, this is a step in a new direction for Ms. Strange. With her comorbidities and persistent acid reflux, this less invasive procedure will support her weight loss goal. She values her family, health and goals and I look forward to the journey with her.”
Robotic-assisted surgery offers many benefits for patients including lower complication rates, less pain, shorter recovery times, and improved outcomes. This new robotic surgical system is designed to transform surgery to enable better outcomes and efficiency.
“This marks a significant breakthrough in our commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care while delivering exceptional healthcare to the Houston community,” said Robert Sabina, chief executive officer at HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center. “Our surgeons have a great deal of experience in robotic-assisted surgery and this new technology will meet their evolving needs.”