Robotic Assisted Surgery Now Available at Carlsbad Medical Center

Carlsbad Medical Center is taking minimally invasive surgery to the next level with the addition of new robotic equipment. Minimally invasive techniques are advanced through the use of robotic assisted equipment, allowing surgeons to perform more complex procedures.The new equipment features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human hand. The robotic assisted technology allows surgeons to operate using the tiniest incisions - with greater vision, precision and control.

“We are excited to offer this technology to Carlsbad and the surrounding area,” CMC Chief Executive Officer Matthew Banks said. “With the new robot, surgeons trained in this surgical instrumentation are now able to provide a number of minimally invasive surgical procedures vs. a traditional laparoscopic surgical approach.”

Dr. Murugan Athigaman, general and vascular surgeon at CMC is trained in this highly specialized surgical robotics approach.

“Robotic surgery can offer a faster recovery for patients,” Dr. Athigaman said. “It is our goal to provide safe and compassionate care. Patients typically experience a shorter recuperation period with less intense pain and many can usually return to their normal routine in a shorter period of time.”

While not all patients are good candidates for robotic surgery, those that are good candidates are given the option of utilizing this advanced technology vs. a more traditional surgical approach. Examples of surgical procedures that have benefitted from robotic surgery include, but are not limited to: Inguinal hernia, Ventral hernia, Umbilical hernia, Incisional hernia, Hiatal hernia, urologic (prostate) surgery, general laparoscopic surgery, colorectal surgery, gynecologic surgery such as hysterectomies and ovary removal for benign conditions, certain thoracic procedures, gallbladder removal and early stage (T1 or T2) cancers. Along with Dr. Athigaman, other CMC surgeons trained for robotic surgery are Urologist Dr. Mitchell Petty and General Surgeons Dr. Abdul Qureshi and Dr. Abi James, with several other surgeons training soon. Carlsbad Medical Center’s commitment to helping people get well and live healthier includes a free monthly e-newsletter with health and wellness tips for all ages. Sign up at www.carlsbadmedicalcenter.com/etter-sign-up.