Robotic Surgery Program

UNM Hospital continues to lead the way in robotic and minimally invasive surgery in the State of New Mexico. The program, led by Dr. Satyan Shah, Director of Robotic Surgery offers many patients with prostate cancer, gynecological cancer, and pelvic organ prolapse a minimally-invasive procedure using the da Vinci surgical system.

This state-of-the-art surgical robot was the first of its kind to be installed in the state of New Mexico, and utilizes advanced instruments and a miniature camera that provides a High-Definition, 3-Dimensional view inside the body.  Robotic surgery delivers precision not possible during traditional surgery or even conventional laparoscopic surgery.

Surgeons begin a typical robotic procedure by making several dime-sized incisions in the abdomen.  Through these incisions, various instruments and cameras are passed.  Movements of the surgeon's hands are precisely translated by the machine and direct the robotic arms.  In contrast to traditional laparoscopic surgery, the robotic arms are capable of movements similar to the human wrist, giving the surgeon more dexterity.  When the surgery is finished, the prostate (or other specimen) is placed into a bag and removed from one of the incision sites.

Why choose robotic surgery?  Patient benefits may include faster recovery, better cosmetic result, reduced blood loss, less pain, less scarring, and shorter hospital stay.  In the case of robotic prostatectomy, this technology allows for preservation of nerves and muscular structures important for erectile function (potency) and urinary control (continence).  Benefits such as these have made robotic prostatectomy the #1 treatment for localized prostate cancer.

UNM Hospital is proud to be the state's leader in robotic surgery - our experienced team has performed more robotic surgeries than any other hospital in New Mexico.  Please call (505)272-4946 to arrange a consultation with one of our robotic surgeons.