Expert surgeons use the new telepresence technology to train and mentor surgeons from around the world in robotic-assisted surgery techniques

Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center is on the cutting edge of virtual training for surgeons in robotic-assisted surgery techniques. Orlando Health ORMC uses the Intuitive Telepresence Platform to train and mentor surgeons and surgical teams throughout the state, across the country, and around the world.

The addition of the new technology strengthens the hospital’s distinction as a leader in robotic surgery with its 2,000 such surgeries in fiscal year 2021, and as a designated da Vinci robotic surgery case observation site. Case observation site selection is based on a surgeon’s expertise, experience, and excellent outcomes. Criteria includes a requirement of more than 700 cases using the da Vinci technology, made by Intuitive. Annually, less than two percent of all active surgeons in the United States qualify.

“As leaders in the field of teaching innovative surgical techniques, we embrace the opportunity to help surgeons increase their knowledge and skills,” said Alexis Sanchez, MD, MS, MBA, senior director, Robotic Surgery Program, Orlando Health. “Peer-to-peer learning and development is a key factor in surgical education and in making surgical procedures safer for patients.”

The surgeon-led education experience takes place using the telepresence platform that features two-way audio and video communication. While the surgeon performs the procedure, observation participants can select from multiple camera angles for up-close views of the surgical system and tools. In addition, the surgeon performing the procedure can use a tablet view to show participants more specific views.

“While virtual, this platform closely resembles in-person surgery case observations,” said Dr. Sanchez. “The experience eliminates the time and cost constraints of travel, while allowing for needed ongoing training. Surgeons can continue their commitment to learning without leaving their location.”

Orlando Health ORMC will use the platform for bariatric and thoracic surgeries – two surgical specialties marked by growth in robotic surgery in recent years.

Luis Herrera, MD, thoracic surgeon, medical director of the Rod Taylor Thoracic Care Center at Orlando Health Cancer Institute, and Andre Teixeira, MD, bariatric surgeon, Orlando Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute are the expert surgeons leading the surgery case observations.

Robotic-assisted surgery is an advanced minimally invasive technology for patients. Benefits include smaller incisions, less trauma, shorter recovery time, and quicker return to normal activities. For surgeons, the benefits include more precise instruments, increased vision, and total control of more aspects of the operation.

Orlando Health offers robotic-assisted surgery in the following surgical specialties: colorectal surgery, gynecologic oncology surgery, gynecologic surgery, head and neck surgery, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, robotic general surgery, thoracic surgery, urogynecologic surgery, urologic surgery, and weight loss/bariatric surgery.