Doctor at St. David's North Austin Medical Center performs first-of-its-kind cervical surgery in Austin

Doctor at St. David's North Austin Medical Center performs first-of-its-kind cervical surgery in Austin

By Kelsey Wilkinson Thursday, 28 January 2010

AUSTIN — Earlier this month, Dr. Michael Teneriello of Texas Oncology and St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, performed a da Vinci Surgical System radial hysterectomy—the first of its kind to be performed in the City of Austin. The rare, state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical procedure was implemented to treat an early-stage cervical cancer patient. January is national Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and the American Cancer Society said approximately 11,270 new case of the disease were diagnosed in 2009.

“It’s important for women to know there is a less invasive surgical option available here in Austin because awareness is a critical step in treating cervical cancer,” said Don Wilkerson, CEO of St. David’s North Austin Medical Center. “We are proud to offer this innovative technology to women in the Central Texas community.”

The surgical system that was used differs from other practices because it offers a high-definition 3D vision and a magnified view of the surgical site, enabling doctors to operate with a very high degree of precision, dexterity and control. The system’s robotic arms control tiny surgical instruments and a 3D endoscope. The arms are inserted into the patient’s body through very small incisions. Meanwhile, the surgeon operates while seated at a console viewing a 3D image of the surgical field. The surgeon uses the master controls below the display and the system translates the surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient.

“It’s a high-level surgery specialization, specific to gynecological oncologists,” Dr. Teneriello said. “We’re fortunate that Texas Oncology and St. David’s North Austin Medical Center are committed to using the latest technology…The da Vinci system is the most cutting-edge device out there.”

The prognosis for the Austin patient is excellent following this curative procedure.

The new surgical system also allows for faster recovery time with patients: a two-week recovery period instead of the usual six-week recovery time allotted for traditional gynecologic surgeries. The procedure significantly lessens pain, causes less blood loss and minimizes scarring.

Visit www.stdavids.com for more information.