Robotic Surgery

NMC Health uses the latest in medical technology through robotic surgery options for joint replacements and general surgery. Learn about them, here.

The cutting edge of medical technology

As an innovative health system working with the latest in medical technology, NMC Health prides itself on its use robotic surgery options. With this state-of-the-art technology, our board certified surgeons are able to provide the best care in Kansas. 

With the help of robotic arm-assisted surgery from Mako SmartRobotics™ and The daVinci® Surgical System, our procedures are more precise than ever. You can be sure you’re receiving excellent care from our specially trained physicians who have access to some of the most cutting edge tools available in medicine today.

Robotic Services at NMC Health

Orthopedics
  • Joint Replacement
  • Joint Repair
  • Hip Replacement
  • Knee Replacement
Gynecological
  • Hysterectomy
Gastroenterology
  • Colon Resections
  • Hernia Procedures
  • Nissen Fundoplication
  • Cholecystemcomony
  • Gastretomy
  • Gastrojejunostomy
  • Diagnostic
Urology
  • Kidney Disorders

Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery

NMC Health Medical Center was only the second hospital in the state to offer Stryker’s Mako SmartRobotics™ Robotic Arm-Assisted technology for joint replacement surgery. This latest advancement in joint replacements is changing the way hip and knee replacement surgery is performed.

Our board certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. J. Scott Pigg is specially trained in this type of surgery. The precision is second-to-none, allowing for better outcomes and faster recovery for patients.

NMC Health Surgical Specialists are keen on using The daVinci® Surgical System for minimally invasive procedures. At NMC Health, our board certified surgeons use this arm-assisted technology for general surgical procedures, gynecological and urological surgeries.

Mako SmartRobotics™

Millions of Americans suffer from joint pain every year. Whether it’s knee pain or hip pain, arthritis is usually the number one reason you might be suffering. If your doctor says you need  joint replacement surgery, our expert orthopedic surgeons can ensure you get a replacement that is customized to you.

With the help of Mako SmartRobotics™, our surgeons can help you get back on your feet faster.

How it works

Mako SmartRobotics™ uses 3D CT-based planning software so your surgeon can know more about your anatomy to create a personalized joint replacement surgical plan. This 3D model is used to preplan and assist your surgeon in performing your joint replacement procedure.

In the operating room, your surgeon follows your personalized surgical plan while preparing the bone for the implant. The surgeon guides Mako’s robotic arm within the predefined area, and Mako’s AccuStop™ technology helps the surgeon stay within the planned boundaries that were defined when the personalized preoperative plan was created. By guiding your doctor during surgery, Mako’s AccuStop™ technology allows your surgeon to cut less by cutting precisely what’s planned to help protect your healthy bone.

It’s important to understand that the surgery is performed by an orthopedic surgeon, who guides Mako’s robotic arm during the surgery to position the implant in the knee and hip joints. Mako SmartRobotics™ does not perform surgery, make decisions on its own or move without the surgeon guiding it. Mako SmartRobotics™ also allows your surgeon to make adjustments to your plan during surgery as needed.

The daVinci® Surgical System

Technology and technique works together to create better outcomes through The daVinci® Surgical System. Your surgeon will be in control of every aspect of your surgery with this robotic arm-assisted technology. Compared to traditional open surgery, this type of surgery can offer: 

  • Faster recovery 
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Less pain
  • Less scarring
  • Quicker return to normal activities
  • Fewer complications from surgery


The robot is named after Leonardo daVinci because daVinci created the first robot. He also used unparalleled anatomical accuracy and 3D details to bring his masterpieces to life. The daVinci® Surgical System similary provides your surgeon with such enhanced detail and precision that the system can simulate an open surgery environment while allowing operation through tiny incisions.

Robotic surgery provides a minimally invasive option and techniques for complex procedures.

What we treat

The daVinci® Surgical System is used in a variety of procedures at NMC Health including: 

  • Cancer (bladder, colorectal, gynecologic, kidney, prostate, throat, thyroid)
  • Gynecologic disorders
  • Heavy uterine bleeding
  • Kidney disorders
  • uterine fibroids
  • Uterine prolapse


Get back to your life sooner with The daVinci® Surgical System at NMC Health! If you are considering minimally invasive surgery, ask your doctor what options might be available to you.

FAQs

Yes. Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery that offers more benefits and more precise outcomes. With the help of the robot, a specially trained surgeon will guide the machine to complete your surgery. They have control of the robot, which is programmed with your customized medical care plan.

Robotic surgery gives the surgeon more control and flexibility during your procedure. Both of these types of surgeries are minimally invasive and are done through a tiny incision in your skin. This helps you to recover more quickly and have a shorter hospital stay. During laparoscopic procedures, the surgeon guides a camera with tools through the procedure. With robotic arm-assisted surgery, the surgeon will have a greater range of motion. 

When a surgeon uses a robotic arm-assisted surgical system to complete a surgeon, they can see everything going on inside your body through a small camera. With the help of that camera, the surgeon sees everything on a magnified scale, which increases their precision. It also provides a brighter, clearer picture that is better than if they were standing over you during open surgery.

No. There are still some surgical procedures that are done in a traditional method. The type of surgery you may need may or may not be best done with robotic surgery. Your surgeon will make a determination based on your condition and fit you with the right surgery option for you.

For instance, if you are in need of open heart surgery or any heart procedure, it’s generally still best to have those types of surgeries done in a traditional manner. Ask your doctor about your procedure and if robotic surgery is right for you.

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