The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus is proud to announce a significant milestone in its commitment to advanced patient care. In late October, Dr. Stephen L. Dickson Jr., an accomplished cardiothoracic surgeon who joined the health system’s St. Francis Campus in July, successfully performed the hospital’s first robotic-assisted lobectomy.
This groundbreaking procedure used robot-assisted video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) to treat a 64-year-old woman with two unrelated tumors, including one in her lung. After a comprehensive review by a multidisciplinary tumor board, Dr. Dickson and his team determined that removing the lung tumor was critical to preserving the patient’s long-term health.
Using the state-of-the-art da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system, Dr. Dickson completed the lobectomy through several small incisions in the chest, allowing for a minimally invasive approach. The robotic system translates the surgeon’s hand movements into precise motions by robotic arms, enabling greater control and accuracy. Following the surgery, the patient experienced a smooth recovery and returned home just two days later with effective pain management.
“The da Vinci robotic system enables us to perform complex procedures with unparalleled precision, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing recovery time,” Dr. Dickson said. “Robotic assistance also allows us to retrieve lymph nodes more comprehensively, which is vital for accurate staging and improving survival rates, ultimately benefiting our patients’ overall prognosis.”
Robot-assisted VATS offers several advantages over traditional methods, including shorter recovery times, less post-operative pain, and quicker returns to daily activities. Dr. Dickson emphasized his commitment to using robotic technology whenever possible to prioritize patient safety and optimize surgical results. In cases where robotics may not be appropriate, he seamlessly transitions to open surgery.
Since joining St. Francis, Dr. Dickson has brought innovative techniques and a dedication to excellence that have expanded the hospital’s capabilities in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. This milestone reflects the commitment of St. Francis to advanced, patient-centered care, helping individuals achieve better outcomes and healthier futures.